jan/feb 2011

Tri-City Transmission Setting the Bar for Processes and Procedures

F150 with an EPC Code that Won’t Go Away

FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRYTM

2011 BUYER'S GUIDE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY2011

Technically Ahead

1.

1 Automatic Drive • P.O. Box 440 • Bellows Falls, VT 05101-0440 USA • 800-843-2600 • 802-463-9722 • F: 802-463-4059 • www.sonnax.com©2010 Sonnax Industries, Inc.

PROBLEM SOLUTION Tool Required Part Number

• RPM surge on coast or light acceleration 1. Lockup Clutch Control Valve Kit

F-25741-TL29 25741-29K • Harsh downshifts & VB-FIX

• Excess pressure in reverse 2. Oversized Pressure Regulator & End Plug Kit F-25741-TL 25741-01K • Fluid & converter lining overheat & VB-FIX

• Overheating fluid, bushing & converter 3. Secondary Regulator Valve Kit F-25741-TL11 25741-11K

• Harsh reverse engagement & VB-FIX

• Linear solenoid and/or gear ratio codes 4. Solenoid Modulator Valve Kit F-25741-TL18 25741-18K • Slippage or shock on kickdown (2 Locations) & VB-FIX

• Flare upshifts or downshift bind-ups 5. K1 Clutch Control Valve Kit F-25741-TL25 25741-25K

• Excess clutch overlap & clutch distress & VB-FIX

• Flare upshifts or downshift bind-ups 6. K2 Clutch/B1 Brake Control Valve Kit F-25741-TL5 25741-05K

• Excess clutch overlap & clutch distress (2 Locations) & VB-FIX

• Flare upshifts or downshift bind-ups 7. K3 Clutch Control Valve Kit F-25741-TL8 25741-08K

• Excess clutch overlap & clutch distress & VB-FIX

• Delayed engagements 8. Accumulator Piston Kit 15741-14K • Slipping in forward gears (4 Locations)

• Shift complaints associated with circuit 9. O-Ringed End Plug Kit 5 End Plugs (9mm) & 7 O-Rings 15741-35K pressure loss 10. O-Ringed End Plug Kit 5 End Plugs (11mm) & 7 O-Rings 15741-36K

10 Sonnax Kits for Aisin AW TR-60SN*

*NOTE: Also fits VW/Audi 09D.

Bottom Valve Body

Top Valve Body

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

4.

6.7.

9.10.

8.

8.

SPECIAL INTEREST & TECHNICAL 4 Fun with transmissions: F150 with an EPC Code that

won’t Go away by Bill Brayton

10 DoCtor DoCtor: Phantom oil Leaks on the road

by Randall Schroeder

16 technically ahead Precision international

20 subaru transmissions: something new but Looks Familiar

by Mike Souza

28 maKinG it worK: analyzing Generation iii by Dennis Madden

32 KEEPinG it tEChniCaLLY sounD: thE rE5r05a… aGain?

by Lance Wiggins

42 shoP ProFiLE: tri-City transmission: setting the Bar for

Processes and Procedures

50 what's worKinG: understanding Processes and systems

by Rodger Bland

52 From thE tECh DirECtor: adaptation by Lance Wiggins

54 GEars BuYEr's GuiDE 2011 ListinG

124 mEmBErshiP mattErs: Don’t Get Caught with

the atra Logo by Kelly Hilmer

126 atra nEws: the ultimate ride

DEPARTMENTS 2 From thE CEo: are You Filling the role?

— by Dennis Madden

129 Powertrain industry news

133 shoppers and Classified

140 List of advertisers

The views expressed in this publication should not necessarily be interpreted as the official policy of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA). Publication of product information or any advertising does not imply recommenda-tion by ATRA.

GEARS™, a publication of ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, is published for the betterment of the transmission industry and is distributed nine times per year. No part of this issue may be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. GEARS is distributed to members of the transmis-sion industry in the United States, Canada, ATRA Members in Mexico & Europe, and related automotive industry firms and individually. Send changes of address to GEARS in care of ATRA. Subscriptions are available by contacting GEARS in care of ATRA.

Advertisers and advertising agencies assume full liability for all content of adver-tisements printed and also assume full responsibility for any claims arising there-from against the publisher. The publisher reserves the unqualified right to reject any advertising copy as it deems appropriate, with or without cause.

GEARS is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional service. If legal advice or other expert assistance, is required, the services of a competent profes-sional person should be sought— from a Declaration of Principles jointly adopted by a Committee of the American Bar Association and Committee of Publishers.

GEARS also welcomes articles submitted by members of the industry. GEARS considers all articles for publication that contribute positively to the welfare of the transmission industry, and reserves the right to edit all articles it publishes. If you would like to submit an article to GEARS, include background information about the author and a telephone number where he/she may be reached. If you want submissions returned, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Chief Executive Officer Dennis Madden Managing Editor Rodger Bland Technical Director Lance Wiggins Advertising Frank Pasley Senior Designer Jeanette Troub

Contributing Editors: Steve Bodofsky ATRA Technical Staff: Bill Brayton Mike Brown Steve Garrett Pete Huscher Randall Schroeder Mike Souza Director of Membership & IT Svc Kelly Hilmer Seminars & Convention Manager Vanessa Velasquez Bookstore Manager Shaun Velasquez

Publications mail agreement no. 40031403return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:

station a, Po Box 54, windsor, on n9a 6J5Email: [email protected]

issue #154 Printed in u.s.a. Copyright atra 2011

Editorial and Business Offices2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard CA 93030Phone (805) 604-2000Fax (805) 604-2006www.gearsmagazine.comwww.atra.com

TABLE OF CONTENTSFOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRYGEARS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011PHONE (805) 604-2000 FAX (805) 604-2006

On the Cover: Precision International Technically Ahead

Feature story on page 16.(Paid Advertisement)

Fun with Transmissions: F150 with an EPC Code that Won’t

Go Away, Page 4

Tri-City Transmission: Setting the Bar for Processes and Procedures

Page 42

Subaru Transmissions: Something New but Looks Familiar

Page 20

2 GEARS January/February 2011

Wanted: Dynamic, focused individual to direct all fac-ets of auto shop operation.

Must be able to demonstrate leadership qualities and work well with others. Responsible for developing processes and systems in leading our team suc-cessfully into 2011.

Does this ad look familiar? It should: It’s for your position as the owner of an auto repair shop.

The question is, are you qualified for it?

As we start the New Year, now’s a great time to take a good, hard look in the mirror and evaluate yourself. What strengths do you bring to the table? And more importantly, where do you come up short?

I was recently listening to a busi-ness consultant discussing the charac-teristics that he considered necessary for someone to be a successful leader today. He narrowed his list to three basic criteria:

1. Recognizes which problems need to be addressed

2. Asks the right questions3. Removes the obstacles to suc-

cessIn listening to those criteria, I was

struck by how well they seemed to address the 5 Recurring Traits we iden-tified through the What’s Working pro-gram:

1. Has the right attitude2. Uses vision/plans/goals3. Applies clear processes and

procedures4. Hires the right people5. Is willing to pull the triggerBut that brings us back to the ini-

tial question: Are you qualified for this position? For most shop owners, the answer is a qualified yes. You have all

the tools; you just need to put them to use properly.

And we know about tools: If you’re like most shop owners, you started out as a technician. And you opened your shop back when it was possible to be successful simply by fixing transmis-sions.

Those days are long gone.Today you have to be a business

manager, a marketing consultant, a con-sumer relations specialist, a financial planner, and a politician. That’s a lot to ask of anyone… especially for some-one who basically considers himself to be a mechanic, first and foremost.

On the other hand, I’ve known a lot of mechanics over the years. And I can say, without fear of contradiction, that they’re some of the smartest people I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. These are guys who, often with limited formal education, manage to diagnose and repair some of the most technically demanding systems in the world today.

And it’s those very same skills that made you a competent technician that you’re going to call on to address your shop’s needs.

Think about it: This is a job for someone with strong analytical skills. Someone who likes solving problems, and is willing to examine different possibilities until he comes up with a solution that works. That sounds like a mechanic to me.

So think about your business from a mechanical perspective. Look at what you’re doing and what you’d like to accomplish. Identify the problems that need to be addressed. Ask the right questions. And take the steps necessary to remove the roadblocks from your success.

Of course, no one comes to the table with everything he needs. That’s okay: Some of the requirements can be learned.

That’s where we’ll be going with What’s Working this year. We’re going to provide the details of the processes and procedures that other shops have used to support their successes. We’ll move on from theory and look at the nuts-and-bolts of how they’re Making It Work in their shops.

Then again, not everything can be learned. Some of the job requirements involve your personality. And person-alities aren’t something you can just turn on or off. Maybe you’re just not suited to customer relations or com-munity service.

That’s okay, too: Part of any good leader’s job is learning to delegate. You aren’t the right person to answer the phone or serve customers? Hire a ser-vice advisor. Don’t have the personality to work with the local service clubs? How about your service advisor or shop foreman? Or your spouse? Or maybe a family member, such as a grown son or daughter, or a retired parent.

Yes, those things are all part of the job, but that doesn’t mean that you have to be the one to do them. You’re the leader: You need to make sure they get done. If you’re not the guy, find someone who is.

The New Year is always a great time to take stock… in yourself and your business. Are you qualified to run your shop? Maybe not… by yourself. But you don’t have to do everything yourself… that’s not your role. Your role is to make sure that it gets done… and done right.

Are You Filling the Role? by Dennis Madden

members.atra.comwww.atra.com

FROM THE CEO

No matter what you’re trying to accomplish, learning a new program or procedure usually

involves following 3 basic steps:1. Theory2. Details3. Doing ItFor example, supposed you want

to learn how to fly an airplane. You’d usually begin by taking flying les-sons. Those lessons would start with a crash course in theory. You’d learn about things like lift, thrust, and drag. And you’d have to learn the language: Words like ailerons, elevators, rudder, and more.

Once you had the theory down you’d move on to the details, which is basically the how-to of flying: how to set the throttle, when to adjust the mix-ture, and how to lock the landing gear down before you try to land the plane (that’s an important one!)

Finally, after all that training, you’d be ready for your final step… the culmination of everything you spent time learning: the solo flight.

That’s a fair analogy for virtually any new program or procedure you’d like to get involved with, whether you’re flying an airplane or jumping out of one (preferably with a para-chute!) And that includes operating a transmission shop.

Over the last five years we’ve worked on helping you learn the ins and outs of running a successful transmission repair shop, through our What’s Working program. Much of that involved analyzing how today’s shops operate, to enable you to quantify your

AAMCO Transmission Center owner Robert Goldberg says, “When we used the GPX Friction Plates on a Honda transmission rebuild, they shifted well from the first application. We always worry about aggressive shift quality with Hondas and Acuras. This had perfect shift quality and we didn’t have to use the very expensive Honda fluid to get good shifts. I saved a lot of money with the GPX Friction Plates.”

Our commitment to quality manufacturing and product diversity is unsurpassed. Raybestos Powertrain is dedicated to the highest level of service and products.

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The Ford F150 may be one of the most popular trucks of all time. Most shops see them in

their bays on a regular basis. The truck pictured (figure 1) is an Extended Cab 4WD with a 4.6L gas engine.

This truck came into the shop with the OD light at the end of the shifter handle flashing (figure 2). This truck came to us from a local transmission shop, specifically for this article.

Our first step in the diagnosis was to connect a scan tool. The truck had two codes in memory:• P1747 — Pressure control solenoid

short circuit• P1760 — Pressure control solenoid

A short circuitThe battery had been disconnected

recently, so we also had P0603 (Internal control module KAM error code).

We cleared the codes three or four times; each time the solenoid codes come back as soon as we fired up the engine.

Diagnosing the CodesFirst we needed to check the wires

from the controller to the EPC solenoid. The battery box on this F-150 comes out faster than we can raise the truck up in the air. Removing the battery box provides easy access to the controller for testing.

We unplugged the 104-pin control-ler connector and the transmission case connector. We then probed pin 81 on the 104-pin connector with our meter’s

positive lead and connected the negative lead to ground. The reading should be zero ohms. Anything other than zero ohms indicates a short to ground and the wire must be repaired (figure 3).

The wires from the computer to the transmis-sion read zero ohms, which verified that there were no shorts to ground in the wir-ing between the controller and the transmission.

Now the thought of a bad controller came to mind. We know these are expensive units; list price for this one is close to $650.

A simple, effective way to test the controller is to wire a solenoid directly into it. In this case we used a known good EPC solenoid and a couple jump-er wires. One of the jumper wires was

fused: We were going to be working with system voltage, and a fuse would keep us safe from arc welding or catch-ing anything on fire.

We located the EPC wire and cut it close to the controller, but left enough wire so it’d be easy to repair once we were finished testing (figure 4).

Fun with transmissions

by Bill Braytonmembers.atra.com

www.atra.com


Figure 1

Figure 2

Whatever It Takes Does!!!

72 72

www.wittrans.com

45RFE / 5-45RFE RWD 4 & 5 Speed

© Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc.

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Body

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070 519

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337 862334A

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150 892*

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Next we use a jumper to connect the solenoid to the cut wire on the con-troller side, and the fused wire from the other solenoid termi-nal to the positive battery cable (figure 5). This wired the test solenoid into the solenoid control cir-cuit.

We used the scan tool to clear codes and see which codes, if any, would return. The codes reset almost imme-diately after clearing

them (figure 6). That meant the problem could only be:• the 3 inches of wire

between the controller and the test solenoid.

• the 104-pin connector going into the controller.

• the controller itself.If the codes hadn’t returned with

the test solenoid wired into the circuit, it would’ve meant the problem was in the EPC circuit, somewhere between where we cut the wire and the trans-mission.

A quick inspection of the connec-tor and the wire revealed no problems, so the controller had to be the root cause of the codes. We took this infor-mation to the boss and explained with confidence that this truck needed a new controller. Once the testing was com-plete, we soldered the cut EPC wires back together and covered the repair with heat shrink tubing to protect the wire from the elements (figure 7).

Installing and Programming the New Controller

The new controller comes from the Ford dealer with no programming. The controller is basically an empty box. We need to fill that box using the reprogramming software we have on our laptop or desktop PC.

In the April 2009 edition of GEARS, I wrote about what it takes to get started reprogramming. Check it out on line at www.atra.com.

The article contains information about:• What a J2534 connector is and

where to find them.• OEM web site addresses for the

update programs and recalibration software.

• The types of computers that are best for reprogramming.Many of us have been reprogram-

ming for some time now. If you haven’t reprogrammed a Ford controller for, oh, say a couple of weeks or more, you may be in for a surprise when you log into the subscription area of www.motorscraftservice.com and attempt to reprogram a controller. If you haven’t updated your Ford Module Program (FMP) recently, the reprogramming won’t work.

Just like your laptop or desktop PC needs occasional updates, so does the FMP. For those who haven’t


Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

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reprogrammed controllers or are considering it, the FMP is the software downloaded from the Ford web site. This program installs on your computer to work with the factory web site to reprogram Ford controllers.

You may want to take this into consideration when estimating the time it will take to reprogram your next con-troller. The updates to the FMP are slow and may take up to an hour to perform. After the updates are installed, you’ll need to reboot your computer.

Once you’ve updated the FMP, the program will operate as designed when you’re logged in to the Ford web site.

After you’ve completed the new controller programming, you’ll need to introduce the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) to the new controller. The FMP will do the introductions, but this means you’ll also have to repro-gram the ignition keys to the vehicle.

Programming the keys isn’t much of an issue as long as you follow the procedure to the letter. This means that when the instructions say leave the ignition key on for 20 seconds, leave it on for 20 seconds; no more, no less.

Then the instructions for program-ming a key says to insert the next key into ignition within five seconds of removing the previous key. If it takes longer than five seconds, the key won’t program and you’ll have to restart the process. Lay the keys out on the front seat to make the process smooth and trouble free (figure 8).

It’s always a bit intimidating to change a computer on a car or truck. As technicians we like to be able to see and touch the broken part. When a faulty component doesn’t look or feel broken, we sometimes have a hard time replac-ing it, especially if it costs hundreds of dollars.

But by using sound testing tech-niques, you can be sure your repair decisions are correct, and can feel con-fident with your recommendations. And with the latest software, you can repro-gram on-board computers efficiently.

We all know that sound testing techniques and reprogramming capa-bilities add up to better profits. And better profits means more fun with transmissions!

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8


As a dedicated transmission professional Rick Basta, owner of Transmission Kings, knows the secret to a successful shop is dependable performance and satisfied customers. That’s why he rebuilds with TransTec®.

No surprises. Buy a TransTec® kit and you can bet the bank that all the parts required for the job are there and that they all fit. It’s no accident; our engineering department, product development and technical staffs, plus a proven QA system, combine to give you the assurance you can’t get anywhere else.

Manufactured to meet the strictest OE standards, TransTec® kits contribute to a faster rebuild with virtually no comebacks. And detailed technical inserts reinforce what the technicians learn at various seminars. These are just a few reasons why transmis-sion rebuilders request “the kit in the gold and black bag”.

TransTec® kits are produced by Freuden-berg-NOK™, the American partnership with more than $6 billion in resources. Yet it is the close, personal support that impresses transmission shops like Rick’s.

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In this issue of Doctor, Doctor, we’re going to look into the phantom leak that leaves your

customer stranded, and an excellent example of terrific customer service as viewed from a true life example.

From time to time, most techni-cians have experienced a large leak that simply stops once the unit cools down. After you refill the transmission (to get the car/truck into the shop), nothing appears to be leaking. And even after

going for a road test, the leak appears to be gone. Haven’t run into this before? You will.

Here’s what the customer typically has to say about the conditions that led up to the leak: • I was just driving and it happened.• I’ve never noticed anything leak-

ing before.• I had my vehicle serviced right

before this road trip and my mechanic never mentioned any-

thing about leaks.• The transmission always worked

fine.What the customer forgot to men-

tion probably includes one or more of these points:• I was driving through the desert,

with the outside temperatures over 100º, and I had the A/C running (raising underhood temperatures even further).

• I had the vehicle overloaded, exceeding the GVW rating.

• I was driving up a long incline.• The temperature gauge never actu-

ally reached Hot; but it was above center for a couple of hours.Well, I said this was a true life

experience: This took place during a road trip that my wife took while mov-ing our daughter from California to Texas. I wasn’t with her; I was watch-ing the Top Fuel Nostalgia Drag Car Nationals in Bakersfield, California on a late Saturday afternoon when my cell phone rang: “We’re broken down in the middle of the desert.”

Okay, that got my brain going: What can I do from hundreds of miles away? Here’s where it’s great to be associated with ATRA, and being able to use ATRA to find a shop when trav-eling. Not having internet at the race track, I called a family member to have him look up shops within a 100 mile radius of where my wife was by search-ing atra.com.

At the moment, she was stuck in the middle of nowhere on Interstate 40. A search of the ATRA Shop Finder got me a list of eight Member shops for my wife to call.

It was Saturday afternoon. She went

by Randall Schroedermembers.atra.com

www.atra.com

Phantom Oil Leaks on the Road

Figure 1

From time to time, most technicians have experienced a large leak that

simply stops once the unit cools

down.


Doctor. Doctor It Hurts When I Shift…

SUPPLIERMEMBER


through the list, one name at a time, exhausting seven of the eight numbers. Everyone was closed. Frustrated and getting scared, she called the last num-ber and someone picked up the phone:

“RB’s Transmission & Classics, my name is Robert. How can I assist you?”

Wow, a cheerful voice (it did help settle her nerves!), so she explained her problem and where she was (90 miles away). Here’s where Robert went above and beyond for customer ser-vice. RB’s Transmissions & Classics is in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Robert explained that he was surprised the phone rang, because he usually shuts off call forwarding on Friday after-noons so he can enjoy the weekend. This weekend he forgot.

Robert went on to explain that the shop was closed, but the lot was open and well lit. He gave her the number for a towing company, and told her to have them drop the car off in front of the bays and he’d look at it on Monday when he got in. He also gave her a list of hotels and good restaurants near the shop.

As my wife and daughter were settling down for the night, her phone rings; it was Robert. He wanted her to know that he’d just driven by the shop and her car was there. And he asked whether they’d found a room and a place to eat, and if there was anything else he could do for them. Customer follow up goes a long way when the customer feels stranded, and Robert received high praise from my wife, knowing that he cared about her situ-ation.

Well, the move had to continue, so I rented car in Bakersfield and, after many hours of driving, I picked up my wife and daughter and continued on to Texas.

Monday morning, driving through the middle of New Mexico, the phone rings: “Randall, this is Robert. I’m looking at your car. There’s lots of oil across the undercarriage, but after I filled it up, nothing appears to be leak-ing.”

Ah, the infamous phantom leak. I was hoping it would be something as simple as a cooler line blowing off that could have been repaired while we were on the road. Well, knowing what

happened, I said I would pick the car up on the way back to California and take care of it when I got home. Remember, the test results of refilling the transmis-sion and a long road test showed no more leaks.

Typically, we recommend remov-ing the transmission and fixing this even if it doesn’t appear to be leaking at the moment you’re checking the car. Even though it isn’t leaking now, there’s a real problem here, and being proactive will prevent a major letdown and failure later on.

Let’s look at what usually causes this type of leak. Conditions that cause phantom leaks include:• Overloaded vehicle.• Long drive in high temperatures.

• A/C running, raising the engine temperature even more.As transmission fluid temperature

rises, heat not only raises the oil level inside the unit, it also causes all the components to expand — including the front seal. With the transmission run-ning hot, oil blows past the front seal. After it cools down the leak goes away.

You probably know that most transmission dipsticks indicate the proper level when the unit is hot. This controls the level based on expansion. The hot level fill mark (figure 1) is usu-ally based on a temperature of 180ºF. As the oil and the transmission parts expand, components that may not com-pensate properly are the springs in the oil seals. This includes the output shaft

Figure 2

Figure 3



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seals, axle seals, and in this case, the torque converter seals (figure 2).

This particular unit was an AX4N in a late Ford Taurus Wagon, but the phantom leak isn’t limited to any one manufacturer and can happen to all makes of transmissions. As the oil seal heats up due to working loads, temperatures, and expansions, the gar-ter spring in the seal (figure 3) also expands. When this happens there’s no seal tension holding oil where it belongs. The outcome? POOF! — the oil blows right past the seal.

Once things cool back down, not only do the metal areas contract, the seal and garter spring contract, restor-ing the seal so there are no leaks. Remember, just because it isn’t leaking now doesn’t mean it healed up: It still has to be repaired, so you need to pull the unit out of the vehicle.

On the bench you need to check the quality of the oil seal, the converter bushing, and in this case the stator support assem-bly. Maximum clearance should be around 0.003” between the surface of the converter bushing (part of the torque converter) and the stator support assembly (figure 4).

As the oil heats up it becomes less viscous (almost as thin as water). If the clearance at the converter bushing is too high, a lot of oil fills up behind the seal; too much to drain back to the sump. With the loss in seal contact, the excess oil blows past the seal.

If the phantom leak goes away once the unit cools down, it indicates the seal and garter spring are expanding too much to seal when they get hot. If the seal and garter spring were able to hold the oil back, this extra oil typically pops the seal out of the case instead of leaking past the seal.

In this case the conditions at the bushings and holding areas are the same as they were with the phantom leak, but because the seal is good, the extra oil pressure works like a hydraulic jack to push the seal out of the case or casting. In that case, once you refill the unit it still leaks, because there’s no longer a seal to



Figure 4B

Figure 4A

Figure 5: Robert Barnes at RB’s Transmission in Lake Havasu City, AZ

hold the oil in.One of the easiest ways to keep

your job simple is by understand-ing how things can or can’t happen. This phantom leak is something every technician experiences at one time or another, and now you know the reason why.

Special thanks to Robert Barnes at RB’s Transmission in Lake Havasu City, AZ (figure 5), not only for the help on the road, but giving me the nudge I needed to explain the theory behind the phantom leak, and share it with the rest of our industry.

Until next time, keep those trans-missions in good working health!

The Doctor

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Technically AheadPrecision International is the old-

est gasket kit manufacturer in our industry. While others have

changed hands several times or are owned by some corporate giant, PI has been a solely owned business for all of its 35 years of serving the Automatic Transmission Aftermarket.

“Through the years, we have had many trials and tribulations, but we have always felt that one of the wis-est marketing decisions we ever made was to start providing Technical seminars to Transmission Rebuilders around the world”, states John Sollazzo the Sales and Marketing manager of Precision International. “We are talk-ing TECHNICAL SEMINARS about problems builders are facing everyday in their shops. We never made the rebuilders sit through propaganda about our product, and Precision International always wanted the rebuilders to feel that our name was synonymous with

technical information and knowledge” continues Sollazzo.

“Let’s go back to the beginning of the Tech Seminar thought process circa

1992”, states Frank Miller VP, “we were looking to help several distributors of ours in Australia promote themselves and we offered to bring someone over to do a “Technical Seminar”. At the

time we had (and still have) an Advisory Board made up of local transmission rebuilders and shop owners. We asked one of them, John Parmenter, if he would be interested in going to Australia and doing these seminars for us. John jumped at the oppor-tunity and went. He did a fantastic job with a very “hands-on” type of presenta-

tion that all the technicians who attended found very beneficial. After seeing the success we had in Australia, we decided this wasn’t a bad an idea and we should

do this in other places. We also decided that we should have John Parmenter working with us on a more full time basis. Obviously his seminars were, and still are, predicated on things he was seeing on his bench every day. So while we wanted him to come on board, we knew he had to maintain his shop for this to be successful. We forged an agreement with John and he became our Technical Advisor, he would help with any tech calls our Engineering depart-ment would get, along with continuing to promote Precision International by providing technical seminars around the globe. These seminars have taken Precision International and John to Mexico, Australia, England, and Puerto Rico just to name a few.

The seminars were so well received that Precision International was able to get John to become one of the regular speakers at both of our Industry Transmission Trade shows. He just completed his 10th year of being a featured Trade Show speaker.” Sollazzo

"...This is a great opportunity for us to talk with them about

what we have available for them from their

distributor and to find out what we can do

to make their job easier."

GEARS January/February 2011 17

adds,”John is a huge draw at these trade show seminars. I think most of the builders enjoy his style, his hands on approach. We understand that ATRA and ATSG, among other organizations, offer Technical Seminars and Help Lines that have always been very well respected; we have always supported these organizations. We, of course, will continue to do that, but there is something about how John approaches the seminar that has made him so popu-lar”, Sollazzo continues. “There is of course an added bonus for Precision International. After John speaks at a Trade Show, our booth is inevitably crowded with people who saw his pre-sentation and would like to speak to him further. This is a great opportunity

for us to talk with them about what we have available for them from their dis-tributor and to find out what we can do to make their job easier.”

Vin Soviero, Precision International’s Engineering Manager adds, “At Precision International we feel the need to give as much Tech help as we pos-sibly can. We are just giving back to the industry, if you will. We know there are so many new units coming out each year that it is tough for everybody to keep up on all the information. If we can do our small part to keep them informed, then we are adding some-thing to the industry, not just trying to take!”

Sollazzo adds, “The things John talks about are real problems he has seen on his bench and that he has had to resolve. They are very helpful to build-ers because he can make them aware of something that they can, and probably will, see and show them how to fix it. We feel so strong about this approach that we have incorporated many of his Tech tips into a Tech Video series we have on our web page WWW.TRANSMISSIONKITS.COM. There are about three dozen of these short videos on there now and we add new ones every month. They are there for all to see free of charge. We can tell by the numbers of views that people are going to our web page again and again, sharing this knowledge is not only beneficial to the builders but also the Precision International product line and our distributors.”

Adds Vin Soviero, “Every week,


John Parmenter is telling me about dif-ferent units he is working on and differ-ent issues he has resolved. He is always anxious to present these to the industry to help others who have, or will, come across the same problem. We have pro-vided John with a top-of-the-line cam-era and laptop computer so that he can take photos and make notes while he is working on these units. This way he can illustrate the problem and solution as well as impart the education verbally. There will be many instances where the solution to a problem will not be over-haul kit related and the fix or solution could be through another company’s product line. We have no problem men-tioning these products if we know it is going to ultimately help the rebuilders do a quality repair, and you can see many of these fixes and Tech tips on our web page. John will always customize his seminars to the area of the world in which he will be speaking. He/we will contact key personnel in those coun-tries well in advance of the scheduled seminar(s) in order to determine what units are popular and what problems are predominant.

Through the years, John has present-ed many time-saving solutions. Some examples are:1. 5L40E molded pistons proper

installation techniques—how to use the GM installation tools (and how to get them) as well as the Seal-E-Zee sprays and cones

2. JF506E pump buzz—using proper pump gasket torque sequence

3. F4A42/F4A51/F5A51—2nd brake tube/seal different lengths, lip designs and in which application each design fits

4. Fluid fill check of units with no dipsticks

5. ZF4HP16—be aware of “C” clutch OEM piston failure

6. NAG-1—be aware of fluid leaking THROUGH the wiring harness

7. RE4F03B clutch noise reduced by special Nissan additive.

And these just scratch the surface of the information John has imparted over his many seminars. He continues, tirelessly every day, to look for other inherent issues and solutions.”

John Parmenter adds “I have always been interested in learning more and

Pete Zervakos

John Marsar, Zervakos (L-R)

John Marsar


through the years I have attended as many seminars as I possibly could. When the opportunity presented itself for me to actually be in a position to give seminars, I jumped at it” John continues, “I have to say it is very

rewarding to be able to help others with problems they may see on their bench. I have met so many wonderful people around the world, and am happy to call many of them my friends. The units we are seeing keep on getting more complicated. The technicians that are successful are going to be the ones that take the time to learn. I am proud to be a part of that process.”

"...The techni-cians that are successful are

going to be the ones that take the time

to learn. I am proud to be

a part of that process.”

Michael Glassberg, Precision International VP of Sales and Marketing concludes, “We at Precision International will continue to strive to bring quality kits to the market for the latest units being introduced to the industry. We also will continue to get as much information out there to help the rebuilder/technician keep up with the latest units they will see, through our series of Videos on our web page, our Tech Bulletins and, of course, through John Parmenter’s seminars.”



John Marsar


by Mike Souzamembers.atra.com

www.atra.com

A newer version of the Subaru 4-speed transmission has been in production since the

latter part of the 2004 model year. This newer version of the 4EAT Phase II (EC8) 4-speed is referred to as the 4AT (H4DOTC) by Subaru.

The newer 4AT appears in the 2004-on Forrester and Impreza, and the 2005-on Legacy and Outback, in both 2-wheel and all-wheel drive models, with or without a turbo-charged engine.

This newer model transmission still has the external, spin-on oil filter on its side (figure 1) when mounted to a 4-cylinder engine. On vehicles with the 6-cylinder engine, the spin-on filter is located on the fenderwell, beneath the battery tray. Earlier 4EAT Phase II 6-cylinder vehicles have the spin-on filter on the fenderwell, under the mud guard. Again, it’s something new but looks familiar.

With the pan removed, the first noticeable difference is the internal electronics on the valve body (figures 2 and 3). The case and internal compo-nents are similar but not interchange-

able, although component application remains the same.

The solenoids’ functional designs and applications are also different. Duty solenoid A (PWM; line pressure) is now a linear type solenoid. There are no longer any on/off solenoids in use; these were all replaced with pulse width modulated (PWM) solenoids. PWM

solenoids now in use are: • High Clutch• 2-4 Brake Clutch• Low Clutch• Low/Reverse Clutch• Lockup• Transfer Clutch (all wheel

drive models) The transfer clutch solenoid was

Subaru Transmissions:Something New but Looks Familiar

Figure 1


Figu

re 3

Figu

re 2



Figure 4

Figure 5 Figure 6


relocated from the rear of the case to the valve body. The dropping resis-tor was eliminated with the introduc-tion of the linear type line pressure solenoid. Duty cycle circuit protec-tion is inside the Transmission Control Module (TCM). The TCM is located outside the transmission, in the driver’s side kickpanel.

Another change in the 2004 model year was the Subaru 5AT 5-speed trans-mission went into production (figure 4). This new transmission may be found

in the Outback and Legacy GT up to the 2011 model year, and the 2006–2011 Tribeca in both 2-wheel and all-wheel drive versions. In 2008-on, the electronics on the valve body have changed, as have several of the internal components.

The spin-on filter on all models is located on the fenderwell, beneath the battery tray.

The early 5AT type electronics, from 2004 to 2007, will also look famil-iar (figure 5). The solenoid arrangement

is very similar to the Infiniti RE5R05A transmission from 2002 to the early part of 2004 (figure 6). The pressure switch locations on the Subaru 5AT are differ-ent from the Infiniti RE5R05A (figures 7 and 8).

The 2004 to 2007 5AT transmis-sion doesn’t use a low clutch or 2-4 brake clutch like the 4EAT Phase II early or late version 4AT. This unit has these clutches:

• High/Low Reverse• Direct

C M Y CM MY CY CMY K



Figure 7

Figure 8

The pressure switch locations on the Subaru

5AT are different from the Infiniti

RE5R05A (figures 7 and 8).

• Front Brake• Input• Low Coast Brake…similar to the RE5R05A Infiniti

and Nissan transmissions. And like the early Infiniti vehicles, the TCM is located outside the transmission.

The solenoid functions are simi-lar to the early Infiniti RE5RO5A unit. So far the ATRA Technical HotLine hasn’t heard of any radiator problems like those on the 2004-on Nissan RE5R05A with the TCM located on the valve body.

The most noticeable change in the 2008-on 5AT transmission is the solenoid locations (figure 9, see next page). Another is the change from a pressure switch assembly to individ-ual pressure switches, located on the valve body (figure 10, see next page).

The TCM for the 2008-on 5AT is still outside the transmission. The internal components are also differ-ent, especially around the transfer clutch. The low coast brake clutch was replaced with a forward brake clutch, found in the previous and second version 4-speed transmission.

This is just a brief overview: We’ll go into a more detailed view of the changes to the internal com-ponents and the electronic controls in future articles, and we’ll take a closer look during this year’s EXPO presen-tation in October.


Figure 9

Figure 10

1: Front Brake Clutch Oil Pressure

2: Input Clutch Oil Pressure

3: High & Low Reverse Clutch Oil Pressure

4: Direct Clutch Oil Pressure

5: Forward Brake Clutch Oil Pressure

1: High & Low Reverse Clutch Linear

2: Direct Clutch Linear

3: Front Brake Clutch Linear

4: Input Clutch Linear

5: Line Pressure Linear

6: Lock Up Pressure Linear

7: Transfer Clutch Linear

8: Forward Brake Clutch Linear


In the last issue of GEARS we revisited the product lifecycle and reintroduced the various business

practices we refer to as Generations. We’ve discussed both of these topics in the past, but this time we took what we’ve learned over the past five years from the What’s Working study to be more specific and help give these ideas and concepts more meaning.

When we examine a Generation III approach, we characterize it as being customer centric. It’s looking more into customer need and how to fill that need rather than looking for ways to sell product (a Generation II approach).

So with that in mind, let’s revisit a tool that allows us to understand vari-ous aspects of products and services and what they mean to the customer. To do this we’re going to revisit the Kano analysis, developed by Professor Noriaki Kano and used in practices like Six Sigma.

We first talked about the Kano analysis back in the 2007 November/December issue. Now we’ll look at it through the prism of What’s Working and the principles of the Generation III approach. By doing this you’ll get a clear understanding of how and why the tenets of What’s Working are so effective.

The Kano analysis uses a grid with an X and Y axis (figure 1). The X axis (horizontal) is labeled “absent” on the left and “present” on the right. The Y axis (vertical) has “low value” on the bottom and “high value” at the top. In addition to the axes there are three attributes: Threshold, Performance, and Excitement.

by Dennis Maddenmembers.atra.com

www.atra.com

MAKING IT WORK

Analyzing Generation III

Figure 1

Figure 2

The Kano analysis consists of a grid with an X and Y axis and three attributes for considering

customer satisfaction: Threshold, performance and excitement.

When threshold (red line) is low by not meeting customer

expectations, satisfaction suffers. Once you meet expectations there’s nothing more to gain.


Here’s how it works: You begin on the left with absent. As you move to the right toward present, you’ll notice a change in the three attributes. Seem confusing? It’s really pretty simple, and as we look at the three attributes sepa-rately you’ll begin see its relevance to your customers… and your business.

ThresholdThreshold means “what’s expect-

ed.” Every customer has a certain expectation as it relates to doing busi-ness with a company. For example, if your sign says you’re open at 8 am, customers expect someone to answer the phone at 8. If they plan on drop-ping their cars off on their way to work, they expect you to be ready to accept them, as opposed to meeting you in the parking lot, just opening the door and turning the lights on.

We learned through the What’s Working study that consumers expect a transmission job to take about two days. Even if they don’t say it to you, it’s what they generally consider a rea-sonable amount of time to be without their cars. When you fail to meet their expectations customer satisfaction is low… very low (figure 2).

So you can lose a lot in terms of customer satisfaction simply by failing to meet their expectations, even if they don’t say anything about it. It can also be something they don’t expect you to do, like changing their radio station. They don’t expect to get in their car and have to reset their radio, so leave it alone.

Now, notice what happens as we move farther toward the right, toward “present.” When an expectation is met, that’s it. You can’t exceed something considered a threshold. If the expecta-tion is that you’re open at 8 and they drop by at 8, it doesn’t matter if you were there at 7.

Once the customer feels as though you’ve met a certain expectation, that’s all you get out of it. And the threshold line in the Kano analysis flattens out, illustrating this. So with threshold you don’t gain a lot by meeting the expecta-tion. Instead, you lose a lot when you don’t meet it.

So think about some of your customer’s expectations and whether

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you’re meeting them. Over the past several years ATRA has surveyed con-sumers about their expectations as they pertain to automotive repair. We’ve highlighted a lot of those results in the 2008 Consumer Marketing Report, available on line at the ATRA Member web site.

PerformancePerformance can be characterized

as “the bigger, the better.” Here’s a simple example: Two restaurants have pastrami sandwiches on their menu and they’re both comparably priced. They both come with fries and coleslaw.

The difference between the two isn’t what they serve but the quality and quantity of their product. Restaurant A serves the sandwich on plain white bread and it includes about three slices of pastrami. Restaurant B serves it on toasted rye bread and it’s piled high with pastrami. Restaurant A makes their sandwiches early in the morning, so by the time you order lunch it’s already 10 hours old. Restaurant B makes their sandwiches when you order them, so they’re fresh. The performance differ-ence here is very apparent.

Performance can apply to many products or services, and, as the Kano analysis shows, value to the custom-er increases as performance increases (figure 3). But the key to performance is that customers must be able to experi-ence it. They must be able to see, touch,

smell, hear, or taste the difference.It’s the difference between the clar-

ity and color of the picture between televisions you’re thinking of buying. It’s the acceleration and maneuver-ability of the jet skis you’ve been shop-ping for. Maybe it’s a dating service, a catering service, or even an airline. The product doesn’t matter; all that matters is there’s a way for customers to gauge its value, based on criteria meaningful to them.

This becomes a problem for trans-mission repair because there’s no per-formance factor for customers to gauge. They expect it to work the way it did before it broke. They can’t use their five senses to examine it: It either works or it doesn’t. So, with the exception of the warranty, there isn’t a performance element associated with transmission repair.

ExcitementExcitement is generally character-

ized as something extra, not expected. It’s like getting a free gift in the mail after using a catering service. For a transmission shop it might be washing the car before delivery or fixing little problems and not charging for them.

Free Wi-Fi and sodas in the waiting room is another example of excitement. You’ll find examples of excitement in the shop visit article in this issue. Excitement is a powerful motivator to customers. It’s something that makes a

positive impression and doesn’t have to cost a lot.

Going back to the Kano analysis (figure 4) you’ll notice that as you introduce elements of excitement, value to the customer increases… dramati-cally.

ConclusionThe transmission repair market

has changed significantly over the past decade or so. What was once a market where the focus was on sales — which covered a wide range of techniques, all designed to get the customer to sign on the dotted line — is now demand-ing a more personable approach that lends credibility to the shop and builds a relationship based on trust with the customer.

The hard part for many, especially those with a technical background, is to come to grips with the fact that what they do in terms of their product has less to do with building their business than the way they treat their customers. The performance factor has little to do with their success. It’s threshold and excitement that play a bigger role.

As we continue examining shops across the country that are improving their businesses by leaps and bounds, we’ll focus on the threshold and excite-ment components they use to build that bond with their customers. It’s Generation III and it’s What’s Working.

Figure 3 Figure 4

Excitement can make a big difference when it comes to customer satisfaction.

These are things that are not expected. They are memorable for the customer and can help improve your referrals.

Customer satisfaction goes up as performance

(red line) goes up. Unfortunately, with the

exception of your warranty, performance isn’t much of a factor for transmission

repair.

Precision transmission repair kits.Because your customers have other things to worry about.

The road to successSo keep your customers humming along. Spec onlytransmission parts and repair kits from Precision Internationaland give them the quality and reliability they expect plus thepeace of mind you both deserve. For more information,call or visit us online.

www.transmissionkits.com

What are you really selling your customers? Performance? Reliability? Peace of mind? The truth is, when someonecomes to you with a transmission problem, they want it fixed quickly and cost effectively with as few worries andhassles as possible. That’s exactly what Precision International, the worldwide leader in quality-tested domestic andforeign transmissions, delivers.

State of the partWhatever make, model or year transmission you’re working on,we’ve got the best parts and kits to fix it. All are cross-checkedagainst the latest OEM specs (with changes noted and made).All are OE quality or better. And all are guaranteed to work.Plus, our huge inventory virtually assures immediate delivery.We also offer outstanding tech assistance and support,

includingwww.transmissionkits.com– our informative website with videoseminars, question and answer forums,complete parts information and muchmore – that can help you troubleshootand solve virtually any transmissionrepair problem.

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I’m sure by now you’ve had this little jewel in your shop, and either made money fixing it or

spent money on pain medicine for your headaches. Either way, we’ve discov-ered more about the RE5R05A that can help you make money on this unit and get the customer out the door in a timely manner.

We’re going to start with rebuild-ing issues. These units aren’t tricky or difficult to rebuild, but they can be deceptive. For example, when a part looks good, it’s usually good, right? Well, not always. Here’s what to look for:

The RadiatorFirst and foremost, cars equipped

with these units have radiator problems like we have air to breath. If it isn’t a problem when it’s in your shop, it will be minutes after it leaves.

Do yourself a favor and install an updated radiator every time one of these units comes into your shop, unless, of course it’s already been replaced.

The Valve BodyOkay, now this is important so pay

attention. The valve body has some wear areas (Figure 1):

• Pressure Regulator Valve

• TCC Control Sleeve Assembly• Cooler Bypass Valve • Reverse Boost Valve, Late and

Early Style• A or B Pilot Valves • TCC Regulator Valve • Accumulator Control Pistons• TCM; Late Models (includes

the pressure switches)

Did everybody notice the TCM? That’s right: If the unit came in with water damage, replace the TCM. Now here comes the tricky part: Because this unit has so many problems with the radiator, a ton of TCMs have had to be

KEEPING IT TECHNICALLY SOUND

by Lance Wigginsmembers.atra.com

www.atra.com

The RE5R05A… Again?

Figure 1


replaced. That means getting a TCM isn’t as

easy as calling your supplier and having it in an hour. But there’s an alternative you may want to consider: You can usu-ally get a TCM and valve body as an assembly. The cost can be from $700-$1100, depending on what’s available.

Fluid SpecificationsThe recommended fluid for the

RE5R05A is Nissan Matic Fluid J (Figure 2). This fluid is partially synthetic. You can use other fluids as long as they meet requirements for Japanese JASO 1A standard.

Check with your local fluid distributor or check with your aftermarket suppliers for the necessary additive. Regardless of the direction you go, know that having the wrong fluid will cause shift problems.

Adaptive StrategiesWhatever you do, don’t skip this

step. Sometimes all you have to do is drive the vehicle for 20-30 minutes. All manufacturers have some sort of adaptive strategy.

There’s an average of twenty five computers on today’s vehicles; some have as high as forty. No matter how many they have, make sure you find out how to re-adapt the systems.

Okay, enough of the need to do’s; now let’s concentrate on interchanges. This can cost you a ton of down time. If you aren’t careful, the wrong part will not only cost you time, but more importantly a customer.

Valve Body DifferencesThe Type 1 valve body system is

found in the Infiniti up to mid-2004; you can identify it by its two blue connectors (Figure 3). The TCM for the

Type 1 valve body system is located in the right kick panel next to the ECM. In mid-2004 the Type 2 valve body system

Figure 3

Figure 2

Figure 4


with the TCM built in was incorporated in all Infiniti and Nissan vehicles.

You can identify the Type 2 early valve body system by the single green connector on all mid-2004 and later Infiniti and Nissan vehicles (Figure 4). The TCM on the Type 2 is actually the complete transmission computer system; that is, it combines the TCM, pressure switches, input speed sensors, range sensor, and solenoid connector, and the whole assembly bolts onto the valve body.

This is becoming a common practice; almost all manufacturers are heading in this direction. The important thing to remember is Type 1 and 2 aren’t interchangeable.

To identify the Type 2 late valve body system, look for the single black connector (Figure 5). The TCM on the Type 2 is also the complete transmission computer system. The Type 2 valve bodies are interchangeable, but the TCM isn’t.


Figure 5


The Turbine Shaft (Input Clutch)

There are two different turbine shaft lengths (Figure 6): One measures 8.250”, and it’s found in Armada and Titan vehicles with a V8 engine. The other shaft is only 7.37” long, and it’s used in all other models.

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

3.50" 3.125"

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They also have different tooth counts, depending on the models. Make absolutely sure you have the right height and tooth count before ordering your part.

The Stator SupportThere are also two different stator

shaft lengths (Figure 7, page 35): One measures 3.500”, and is found in Armada and Titan vehicles with a V8 engine. The other shaft is 3.125” long, and is used in all other vehicles.

There are also stepped and non-stepped stator supports (Figure 8, page 35). Once again, make sure you’re very thorough with your description

when ordering parts.

Front Planet AssemblyThe front planet assemblies are

built differently for all models based on application (Figure 9): 4X2 passenger car, AWD passenger car, 4X4 truck, or AWD truck. As a rule, most of the steel

Figure 9

The front planet assemblies are

built differently for all models

based on application


hard parts are for truck applications. This also represents the tooth counts and overall size of the parts. They have four- and five-pinion planets, and the sun gear can have a 50, 53, or 54-tooth count.

Center and Rear Planet Assemblies

The center planet assembly can have four or five pinions, accompanied with a 77 or 78-tooth center ring gear (Figure 10).

The rear planet assembly can have four or five pinions, accompanied with a 42 or 43-tooth center sun gear.

The rear sun gear follows suit with a 61 or 62-tooth count.

We finish with the rear ring gear with 98, 99 or 110-tooth count.

All of these interchanges can be done but not as individual replacements: You must replace them as complete assemblies and they must be replaced with the proper TCM or PCM for ratio reasons. (Refer to the ratio chart, page 40.)

Figure 10

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Setting Clutch ClearancesYou can set the clutch clearances

for the following clutch drums, but for now the reverse brake clutch drum is the only drum that has a selective backing plate available (Figure 11).

Input Clutch: 0.7 – 1.1mm (0.028” – 0.045”). There are no selective components available for the input clutch.

High and Low/Reverse Clutch: 1.0 – 1.5mm (0.040” – 0.060”). There are no selective components available for the high and low reverse clutch.

Direct Clutch: 1.1 – 1.6mm (0.045” – 0.065”). There are no selective components available for the direct clutch.

Low Coast Brake Clutch: 0.5 - 1.0 mm (.020” - .040”) There

are no selective components available for the direct clutch.

Forward Brake Clutch: 1.0 - 1.3 mm (.040” - .055”) There

are no selective components available for the direct clutch.

Reverse Brake Clutch: 1.1 – 1.6mm (0.045” – 0.065”).


Figure 11

Figure 13Figure 12


There are selective backing plates available for the reverse brake.

If the clearances aren’t correct for any of these clutches, it could cause shift quality issues, chatters, or premature failure.

Setting Total EndplayYou can set total endplay using

an H-gauge. Measure the total endplay from the pump surface to the front sun gear drum selective race. Your measurement should be from 0.25 – 0.55mm (0.010” – 0.022”).

Using an H-gauge on the transmission case:

• Slide the bar down to the face of the sun shell roller bearing (Figure 12, page 38).

• Tighten the thumb screw on the gauge.

• Flip the gauge and place it over the selective washer on the pump (Figure 13, page 38).

The clearance at the washer should be 0.25 – 0.55mm (0.010” – 0.022”). Selective washers are available; refer to the chart (Figure 14).

Torque Converter Rounding off the list of

interchanges is the torque converter (Figure 15). There are four different converters, each with a different overall height. Three of the torque converters have four bolt pads; the other has six.

Each torque converter has a stamped identification mark on the top cover near the converter neck. Refer to the chart for identification (Figure 16).

Here’s the bottom line: Today’s transmission jobs can be tomorrow’s problems if you aren’t careful. Knowing what you can and can’t do to get the vehicle out the door in a timely manner is critical for making technically sound rebuild decisions.

How can you keep up to date on the RE5R05A? ATRA will be covering this unit in detail throughout the year at the 2011 Technical Seminars.

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Special thanks to the guys at ATSG for the information and charts used in this article.


Gear Ratio Charts

Special thanks to the guys at ATSG for the information and charts used in this article.


Tri-City Transmission

Processes and Procedures: They’ve been acknowledged in the What’s Working program as one of the

5 Recurring Traits for every success-ful transmission repair shop owner. We’ve discussed them ad nauseam. But nowhere is the proof of their importance as well-defined as at Tri-City Transmission in Tempe, Arizona, owned and operated by David Riccio.

Think that’s a bold statement? How about colored lines painted on the park-ing lot to identify which cars are wait-ing for diagnosis, which are waiting for repairs, and which are waiting to be delivered? Or separate receiving bins, so that parts can be delivered directly to the technician who’s waiting for them?

No doubt about it: David has turned processes and procedures into a fine art. And it’s paying off in a big way. Last year Tri-City did nearly $2 million in business! We’ll take a closer look at the reasons behind processes and procedures in this issue’s What’s Working column.

Tri-City ThenTo get a feel for how David created

his shop procedures, we should prob-ably start at the beginning, when Tri-City first opened. As it happens, that was several years before David Riccio was born.

Mike Young and Leon Bouchy opened Tri-City in 1972. And from the very start they ran a dependable, qual-ity transmission shop based on trust and service. After two years in business they joined ATRA, and they remained solid ATRA Members for over 35 years.

In 2002 they were approached by a real estate developer on behalf of the

by Rodger Blandmembers.atra.com

www.atra.comTri-City Transmission:Setting the Bar for Processes and Procedures

SHOP PROFILE

L-R: German Gomez, Chandler Yazzi, Brian Zarra, Peter Commins, Jamie Arjon, Brian (Dean) Smith, Adam Elias, Michael Young


city, asking them to sell their property to make room for a new shopping cen-ter. At first they resisted, but fearing a loss of their bargaining power to eminent domain, they finally agreed to accept a new, 9000 square-foot shop in its current location. The process of building and moving into the new shop took over four years.

David Riccio’s StoryBy now you must be wondering

how David fits into the story. At this point, David was a salesman for a company that made custom evaporative coolers — a lower-cost alternative to A/C that works efficiently in hot, dry climates.

He was doing well at work and at home. He married Cira (pronounced “See-da”) four years earlier, and their son, Solomon, was just born. David was on top of the world.

It was the summer of 2005. The morning news report predicted the tem-perature was going to be into triple

Dave Riccio, owner Tri-City Transmission Peter Commins finishing an install

Brian Zarra, Service Manager



digits again. That was fine with David: High temperatures made it easier to sell cooling equipment. He slid in behind the wheel to head off to work, when suddenly he couldn’t raise his arm to put the key in the ignition.

At first David thought he must just be overtired. He went back into his house and lay down to get a little rest. After three days the problem wasn’t getting any better, so he decided it was time to see a doctor.

Days of tests stretched into weeks, and finally the doctors had narrowed the problem down to three possibili-ties: stroke, brain tumor, or Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Not a particularly encouraging selection. It would be sev-eral more weeks before they confirmed a diagnosis of MS.

As he was lying there in his hos-pital bed, he watched the news reports from Mississippi in the aftermath of Katrina. He saw people who’d lost their homes and their families, and he

decided that no matter how bad things were, they could always be worse.

But now David’s future was in doubt. He needed a new means of providing for his wife and child… something that could continue to sup-port them if he became unable to work. Some might have given up: For David, that news was just the motivation he needed to take the next giant leap for-ward in his career.

Several years earlier he’d been very successful as a tire store manager. He had good customer skills, and sales came easy to him. He figured owning a tire store would be a terrific way to ensure his future. So he began looking at the possibility of buying his own tire store.

In fact, he was on his way over to a local tire store to pitch a deal when he found himself driving by Tri-City Transmission. Almost on a whim, he stopped by to talk to Mike and Leon; sort of a warm-up to work the kinks out

of his “sell-me-your-business” pitch. As he was talking to them, his trial pre-sentation began to morph into an actual pitch to purchase Tri-City.

Leon was interested right away; he was planning on retiring the following year, regardless of circumstances. Mike resisted: It was 2005, business had been pretty good, and they were just a few months away from moving into their new shop. But they were getting on in years and David persisted. They signed the deal with David on November 1st, 2006 and Leon retired on December 1st. Mike stayed on as part of a three-year deal to help David get on his feet.

Learning the RopesOne of the first things David dis-

covered upon taking over Tri-City was that there’s a big difference between a tire store and a transmission shop. Let’s face it: Suddenly he was selling a product he didn’t really understand, to people who desperately didn’t want to

Adam Elias pulls out another unit

German Gomez final preps a vehicle for delivery

Brian (Dean) Smith at the front counter

Michael A. Young, Tri-City Transmission head rebuilder, has been with the company for 31 years.


buy, at a price few could easily afford. Not an easy transition to make.

In addition, while Mike and Leon ran a nice shop, nothing was clearly defined or written down. All of the processes and procedures were in their heads. When something came up, they instinctively knew what to do — Tribal Knowledge, David called it. But that made it even more difficult for him to turn those processes into standardized procedures.

Not that Mike and the shop employees weren’t trying to help; they were. At least, most of them were. But many of the processes so integral to operating a transmission shop had become part of their nature. It was like trying to tell someone how to breathe: You do it maybe 20 times every minute of the day, but just try to explain how to breathe to someone else!

It wasn’t long before David real-ized he’d have to improve his under-standing of the business before moving forward, so he told everyone he was taking a vacation. Then he took a trip out to Southern California to visit a

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A clipboard containing all pertinent information follows each job at Tri-City from start to finish. When the trans is out the job-clipboard

gets attached to that unit.

They need a bigger board! Letters from satisfied customers blanket the waiting area.

Parts shelves are labeled with each technician’s initials to ensure an efficient delivery process.



friend who owned a transmission shop.He spent a week there, working in

the shop and learning their processes and procedures. And he brought back a new understanding of how the trans-mission business works. Many of the procedures he later instituted in Tri-City were in place in his friend’s shop. Other processes were waiting to be clarified and refined.

Pulling the TriggerUpon his return, David began put-

ting his new processes and procedures into practice, but not without some passive resistance from the employees. Never having worked in a transmission shop, what was he to compare things to? David had simply struggled to work with the existing culture, even though he knew there must be a bet-ter way. Now he’d seen it done at his friend’s shop, so he knew it could be done.

All that was needed was to pull the

trigger… eliminate the road blocks. In this case it meant changing some key employees.

This action caused a bit of friction between David and Mike. But David recognized the importance of moving forward and surrounding himself with individuals who shared his visions.

Once the resistance to change was gone, the rest of the staff quickly accepted the new procedures and they worked with him to refine those proce-dures for his shop.

Next David needed to address his service writers. He knew how impor-tant they are for the success of the shop, and he needed to put the right people in place. After a few false starts he finally hired two fellows he found through Craig’s List: Neither had any transmis-sion sales experience, but both had the right attitude and personality to work well with customers. From there, train-ing them was relatively easy.

Breaking All the RulesOne of the more notable aspects

of Tri-City Transmission is that many of their procedures violate what one might consider “common knowledge” for running a transmission shop.

For example, while David still insists on checking the car before talk-ing price, he’s more than happy to provide the customer with a price range for a transmission rebuild before the transmission comes apart. And as a "Certified Transmission" distributor, he is more than happy to offer remans to his customers.

He’s also willing to offer target-ed repairs on some transmissions. For example, a 4L60E comes in with an obviously damaged sun shell: the flu-id’s clean and everything else seems to be working okay. David will agree to replace the sun shell instead of selling a complete rebuild.

If the unit fails later on, David will offer a discount on the rebuild… and

Tri-City Transmission’s diagnostic center Chandler Yazzi – Lead Technician

Color-coded parking spaces (blue) identify which cars are waiting for diagnosis, repairs and delivery.



because he tried to help before, there’s a good chance he’ll get the job.

One of the most innovative procedures at Tri-City is their use of “free stuff.” For example, a customer comes in for a

clutch job: While they have the car apart, David’s technicians will check the pedal pads. If the pads are worn they’ll replace them… free. Or maybe they’ll notice an A/C control knob is missing. Once again, they’ll replace it at no charge.

For most shops the idea of looking for additional work is a natural part of the job: You’re under the hood or behind the wheel… this is the time to look for extra things to sell. For David and his staff, this is where they offer that “something extra.”

In fact, David actually considers the cost of these extra items an advertising expense. And why not? We know that the most effective form of advertising for the transmission busi-ness is word of mouth. So which makes more sense: Paying an extra $5000 a month for a bigger ad, or spending $10 to make a customer feel special?

Most of the time David and his employees won’t even mention the new knob or pedal pad they installed. But the customers notice. And they tell their friends about it.

David has made a lot of changes to the processes and procedures since taking the reins of Tri-City Transmission. But he’s the first to admit that his success was built on the strong foundation Mike and Leon created all those years ago.

When David began writing his shop’s operations manual, his first additions were a few simple rules that they offered him when he took over:

• Always show up on time.• Always do what you say you’re going to do.• Always say please and thank you.• Always finish what you start.

Dave Riccio with former co-owner Leon Bouchy and his wife, Rita. Mike Young (not pictured) was recovering from surgery during

our visit but joined us on a phone conversation to discuss Tri-City Transmission’s past, present and future. ATRA would like to thank both Mike and Leon for their longtime membership and support of

the Association.

During the interview a satisfied customer, Bob Winkler, dropped by with a gift for David and crew to show his appreciation

for a job well-done on his Toyota Camry.

In a photo taken shortly after David purchased Tri-City, Mike Young (L) with Leon and David.


Multiple Sclerosis is a progressive, chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Symptoms can be mild, such as a slight tingling in the arms or legs, or severe, such as paralysis or vision loss.

While the cause of MS is still unknown, researchers generally believe it’s an autoimmune disease.

About 400,000 Americans have been diagnosed with MS, and about 200 more are diagnosed every week. Worldwide, MS affects about 2.1 million people. The first symptoms usually show up between the ages of 20 and 40, although individuals as young as 2 and as old as 75 have developed it. MS is not considered a fatal disease as the vast majority of people with it live a normal life-span. But the unpredictability of the disease can present

many challenges, including the possibility of facing increasing limitations.

Generally, women are 2 times more likely to be diagnosed than men; leading some researchers to believe it has a hormonal link.

While MS isn’t directly inherited, there are strong genetic links. Most people have a 1/750 chance of contracting MS, but the chances rise to 1/40 if you have a parent or close relative who’s been diagnosed with MS.

Currently there’s no cure for MS, but there are treatments to reduce the effects of flare-ups.

To learn more or donate to help research, visit the National MS Society web site at www.nationalMSsociety.org.

A terrific basis for any busi-ness.

Because of his illness, David knows that one day he might not be able to maintain an active role in the operation of his business. His ultimate goal is to create a business plan that makes him expendable.

Thanks to his meticulous attention to detail and the

implementation of detailed processes and procedures, Tri-City is well on its way to that goal. And with David at the helm, things are looking better every day.

A Brief Overview of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Cary Lockwood of YourAutoNetwork.com with David at the seminar

David hosted a seminar on Proper Phone Procedures held by the Auto Repair Good Guys Foundation, a nonprofit engaged in helping the local community by fixing cars for needy families. Foundation Director Thom Tschetter, presented the material for the seminar. For more information

on the Foundation visit their website at www.autorepairgoodguys.com.


One of the most valuable dis-coveries from the What’s Working program has been

the 5 Recurring Traits of the most suc-cessful shop owners:

1. Has the right attitude2. Uses vision/plans/goals3. Applies clear processes and

systems4. Hires the right people5. Is willing to pull the trigger

Some of these traits are obvious; others less so. But one that many shop owners question is number 3: pro-cesses and systems. What do we mean by Processes and systems? Why is it important to have them so clearly defined?

What Are Processes and Systems?

To understand the reasons behind them, it’s important to first define what we mean by processes and systems. For our use, processes and systems mean a set of clearly defined steps to follow every time a specific situation arises.

For example, many shops follow a strict diagnostic routine for evaluating cars when a customer comes in with a transmission problem. These routines are often spelled out in a checklist that requires the technician to examine the transmission fluid, computer codes, and so forth.

The reason for this routine is to make sure the technician evaluates all related situations… even those that won’t really affect this specific com-

plaint, but might have an effect on the overall repair.

Your GoalsIn general, processes and systems

have three goals:1. Avoid mistakes2. Improve efficiency3. Reduce waste

In addition, these processes and systems must be repeatable, so every-one in the shop can count on the results when those routines are performed by anyone else.

There are several benefits to hav-ing clearly defined processes and systems in place:

1. They help your shop earn more by being more efficient.

2. They standardize operations, giv-ing you more time to concentrate on growing your business.

3. They turn your shop into an entity that can operate on its own, mak-ing it a more valuable commodity when the time comes to sell.

An ExampleNot every process or system has to

be complicated or involve diagnostic routines. David Riccio, whose Tri-City Transmission was profiled in this issue, created a procedure for parts that saves his shop time and money every day.

When David’s technicians order parts, they provide the parts house with a purchase order number. The last two digits of the purchase order are the technician’s initials.

Each technician has his own, clear-ly labeled parts bin in the front office. When the parts are delivered, the deliv-ery person checks the order number and puts the parts in the bin for the techni-cian whose initials are on the purchase order.

Later, when the technician looks for his parts, all he has to do is check his bin. If they’ve been delivered, that’s where they’ll be. No time wasted searching for parts, or having the ser-vice writer ask everyone “who ordered these parts?”

In addition, each parts house has its own bin for returns. When a part needs to be returned, it’s placed in the part store’s bin. When the delivery person comes to drop off parts, he checks his bin for returns. If anything’s there he writes a receipt and takes it back for credit.

by Rodger Blandmembers.atra.com

www.atra.com

Understanding Processes and Systems

WHAT'S WORKING

Not every process or system has to be

complicated or involve diagnostic routines. David Riccio, whose

Tri-City Transmission was profiled in this issue

(page 42), created a procedure for parts that saves his shop time and

money every day.


Avoid Mistakes

Improve Efficiency

Reduce Waste

No more money wasted on parts that weren’t right or weren’t needed, but never managed to make it back to the parts store.

The procedures within the system are simple, elegant, and they just plain work. They save the shop personnel time, which improves efficiency, and save the shop money by making sure unneeded parts get back to the store and credited to its account.

Creating Processes and Systems

The key to creating a process or system for your shop is to work back-ward. Think about what you hope to accomplish, and then come up with ways to make it happen.

Remember Dennis Madden’s explanation of y = F(x)? In this case y equals the result you’re looking for; F(x) is the procedure to make it happen.

In general, all of your processes and systems must meet three basic cri-teria. They must be:

1. Definable2. Repeatable3. Measurable

In addition, they — and you — should be flexible enough to enable you to alter or completely change them if they don’t provide the desired effect.

One of the most difficult criteria to address is being measurable, because once you’ve established a procedure, you have nothing else to measure it against. In this case you’ll need to measure it against the situations that occurred before you put the new system in place.

One of your best resources for cre-ating new systems/procedures may be your staff. They’re the ones who work the shop, so they know the conditions there. And they know where the prob-lems have occurred.

So explain what you’re trying to accomplish and ask for their input. This does two things for you: First, it gets more people thinking about the situa-tion, so you end up with more ideas to improve it.

And second, since they had a say in helping create the new system, you’re more likely to get a buy-in from them. That buy-in is a valuable commodity for making sure those new systmes get a fair trial and an honest evaluation.

Clearly defined processes and sys-tems are a critical step in creating a profitable business… a business with an intrinsic value beyond just a col-lection of property and equipment. In future issues we’ll look at specific pro-cesses and systems and see how they can be put to work for you.

Processes andSystems mustbe:

Definable Repeatable Measurable

One of your best resources for creating

new systems/procedures may be your staff.

GoalsAvoid Mistakes

Improve Efficiency

Reduce Waste


Adaptation, by one definition is the evolutionary process in which a population becomes

better suited to its habitat. Another says that adaptation is the process of under-going change to fit a new or special use or situation.

Sounds just like our industry doesn’t it? How important is adapta-tion to you and your shop? Think about when you first started out in this busi-ness. Back then, everything was new… and everything was a mystery. But you learned… you grew… you adapted. And, with time, many of those mysteri-ous situations became second nature.

I had the pleasure of speaking to a 40-plus year industry veteran the other day; we were discussing the ATRA Support Center. One of the many words he used was “frustration.” Maybe you’ve been feeling the same way. I get it, trust me when I tell you, I get it.

I’ve had this same conversation with other technicians and shop owners over the last few months. The inter-esting thing is the outcome is always the same: Once they understand how it works, they love it. Adaptation in action.

During our conversation we dis-cussed a number of improvements we need to consider, and I got to explain some of the improvements we’ve

already made. The key here is rec-ognizing that we’re making constant, ongoing, day-to-day improvements to the web site and adapting to the never-ending changes to our industry.

Just like your technicians come in day after day and adapt to new trans-missions and vehicles, sometimes they get frustrated. Usually that frustration is because of not having the right tools, whether it’s a scan tool; a special tool, vehicle specific tool; or accurate refer-ence material.

So what does your tech do? That’s right; he adapts, and he overcomes! We do this every day… it’s why we’re the cream of the crop. It’s why we attend training classes and make it a point to collect as much information as possible at all times.

You’d think after so many years technicians might lose some of that drive, but that’s not the case. Every time we deliver a class, there they are: long-time technicians sitting side-by-side with the newcomers. Even after all these years, they still want to learn… to grow… to adapt.

After an hour on the phone, shar-ing our computer screens to make sure I was covering all of his concerns, I asked if there was anything else I could help him with. And that’s when he said something that reinforced my faith and admiration in the technicians of our

industry. He replied, “No, I have to learn this for myself. I have a great head start; thank you for the time, but it’s my turn now.”

I sat there, cradling the phone, smiling. It reminded me of something from long ago: “No Dad, I can handle rotating my tires; I don’t need your help.” By the way, yes, I did say that to my father, and I can bet you did, too. It’s that mentality that got us where we are… and it’s what keeps us going, no matter what the industry throws our way.

Every year that goes by I reflect on the attributes, the mistakes, the goals, the outcomes, and most importantly, what’s next for transmission repair.

Our industry is one of some uncer-tainty, but the one thing that will remain is your drive to adapt to changes. Your drive to adapt to whatever gets thrown into your lap — good, bad or indif-ferent — comes from some historical situation that you’ve lived through. You adapted, and you overcame…

By the way, the other day I gave a friend a two-disc DVD of his child-hood favorite band “AC/DC.” He said thanks, but he didn’t own a DVD player. At the same time he was happy to show me the new iPhone he just got. I laughed and said jokingly, “Welcome to the 21st Century!”

Adaptationby Lance Wiggins

members.atra.comwww.atra.com

FROM THE TECH DIRECTOR

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Your Technical Information Super Store

With the evolution of OBD II systems, you need up-to-date information on how to repair DTC’s including the details of how the vehicle was driven when a code set, what are the most likely causes of the problem, and how to drive the vehicle to verify it is

really repaired. This is the purpose of this guide.

Toll Free (800) 428-8489 • Email [email protected] • Website www.atrabookstore.com

Brand New Books for the ATRA Bookstore

This Asian Vehicle TCM Codes Guide was created for use in transmission repair shops to aide them in diagnosis of OBD II trouble codes. This book contains over 600 pages of code defi ntion & descriptions. It’s a must have in today’s industry


Non Member $150.00

This Domestic Vehicle TCM Codes Guide was created for use in transmission repair shops to aide them in diagnosis of OBD II trouble codes. This book contains over 600 pages of code defi ntion & descriptions. It’s a must have in today’s industry


Non Member $150.00

Your Technical Information Super Store

With the evolution of OBD II systems, you need up-to-date information on how to repair DTC’s including the details of how the vehicle was driven when a code set, what are the most likely causes of the problem, and how to drive the vehicle to verify it is

really repaired. This is the purpose of this guide.

Toll Free (800) 428-8489 • Email [email protected] • Website www.atrabookstore.com


Company Listings

A & Reds Transmission Parts3737 W. 29th St. S. Wichita, KS 67217 Toll Free: (800) 835-1007 Phone: (316) 942-5300 Fax: (316) 942-8947 www.areds.com

A & Reds Transmission Parts2000 Indiana Ave.Kansas City, MO 64127 Toll Free: (866) 780-7337Phone: (913) 483-7337www.areds.com

A To Z Tool, Inc. 144 W. Commercial St. Wood Dale, IL 60191 Phone: (630) 787-0478Fax: (630) 787-0494 [email protected] www.atoztool.com

A-1 Transmissions & Parts Company1020 Yuma St.Denver, CO 80204 Phone: (303) 623-1401Fax: (303) 623-4923 AA Midwest/AAEQ/AA Engine Quest4050 S. Wentworth Ave. Chicago, IL 60609Contact: Steve Feinstein

Toll Free: (800) 826-7403 x309Phone: (773) 624-6111 Fax: (773) 624-6660 [email protected]

ABS Products, Inc. 591 Apollo St.Brea, CA 92821 Phone: (714) 671-0728 Fax: (714) 671-0836 [email protected] www.abs-products.com

Adapt-A-Case1356 Hall St., S.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49506 Contact: Michael Black / Duane ReisterToll Free: (800) 417-4200 Phone: (616) 331-0000 Fax: (616) 452-5624 www.Adapt-A-Case.com

ADF Systems, LTD1301 19th St. N.Humboldt, IA 50548 Toll Free: (800) 959-1191 Phone: (515) 332-5400 Fax: (515) 332-4475 [email protected] www.adfsys.com

Adsit Company, Inc. (Mercedes Only)12440 S. Old Rd. Muncie, IN 47302 Toll Free: (800) 521-7656 Phone: (765) 282-1593 Fax: (765) 286-4184 [email protected]

Advance Adapters, Inc. P.O. Box 247Paso Robles, CA 92447 Toll Free: (800) 350-2223 Phone: (805) 238-7000 Fax: (805) 238-4201 [email protected]

AES, Inc.3849 N. Fine Ave. #102 Fresno, CA 93727Contact: Carlos Toll Free: (877) 351-9573 Phone: (559) 292-7851 Fax: (559) 292-3533 [email protected] www.aeswave.com

Alabama Bands, Inc. 202 Industrial Dr. Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 Toll Free: (800) 805-8126 Phone: (256) 386-0027 Fax: (256) 381-6486 [email protected]

All Automatic Transmission Parts554 N. Columbia Blvd. Portland, OR 97217 Contact: Robert LassiterToll Free: (800) 461-5396 Phone: (503) 240-2840 Fax: (503) 240-2839 [email protected] www.allautotransparts.com

All Transmission Parts1814 N.E. Argyle St. Portland, OR 97211 Contact: Kevin Shakeshaft Toll Free: (800) 237-8601 Phone: (503) 286-2200 Fax: (866) 836-3005 [email protected] www.alltransmission.com

Alliance Torque Converters, Inc.2240 Richard St.Dayton, OH 45403 Contact: Mike Rees / Don GrayToll Free: (877) 236-5755 Phone: (937) 222-3394

A

GEARS Magazine's2011

Buyer's Guide


New Online Buyers Guide:

See GEARS Homepage

Milwaukee

NashvilleLos Angeles

Toronto

BridgeportPortland

Salt Lake City

Detroit

Vancouver

ATRA.com has become the most visited

Web site in the transmission industry.

Thousands of new customers have been using ATRA’s

Web site to find transmission repair shops in their area.

It can be. Being an ATRA member means ATRA will place a link to your Web site on ATRA.com, where customers can use the local search feature to find shops in their area. This tool is beginning to appear in top search results for transmission repair on Google. This means people looking for shops in search engines are being directed to ATRA’s Web site and ATRA members.

The page views have doubled since the launch of ATRA’s local search feature. That’s potential business you cannot even begin to gain strictly from word-of-mouth referrals.

Your Web site is an essential tool to get transmissions in need of repair into your shop. Now it can be even more powerful. Join ATRA today and start reaping the benefits of ATRA’s Web presence.

Visit members.ATRA.com or call 805-604-2000

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONREBUILDERS ASSOCIATION

Cleveland

ATRA.comATRA.com

Vancouver

DrivingCUstomersDrivingCUstomersDrivingCUstomersto yoUDrivingCUstomersto yoU is your shop one of them?

Milwaukee

NashvilleLos Angeles

Toronto

BridgeportPortland

Salt Lake City

Detroit

Vancouver

ATRA.com has become the most visited

Web site in the transmission industry.

Thousands of new customers have been using ATRA’s

Web site to find transmission repair shops in their area.

It can be. Being an ATRA member means ATRA will place a link to your Web site on ATRA.com, where customers can use the local search feature to find shops in their area. This tool is beginning to appear in top search results for transmission repair on Google. This means people looking for shops in search engines are being directed to ATRA’s Web site and ATRA members.

The page views have doubled since the launch of ATRA’s local search feature. That’s potential business you cannot even begin to gain strictly from word-of-mouth referrals.

Your Web site is an essential tool to get transmissions in need of repair into your shop. Now it can be even more powerful. Join ATRA today and start reaping the benefits of ATRA’s Web presence.

Visit members.ATRA.com or call 805-604-2000

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONREBUILDERS ASSOCIATION

Cleveland

ATRA.comATRA.com

Vancouver

DrivingCUstomersDrivingCUstomersDrivingCUstomersto yoUDrivingCUstomersto yoU is your shop one of them?


The ATRA logo has been a well-known identity throughout the auto repair industry for more

than 50 years. ATRA and its members have used it to establish a recognizable brand and allow consumers to find quality auto repair centers. Businesses that display the ATRA logo have a repu-tation for following the guidelines set forth by the association and are proud of their affiliation with ATRA.

Unfortunately, there are unscru-pulous businesses that choose to dis-play the trademarked and copyrighted ATRA logo illegally on their building, their website or even on some of their business stationary in order to try and capitalize on the great standing of the ATRA name. Most of the businesses that violate the logo usage have never been members of the association. There have also been reports of past members that continue to portray membership long after their benefits have expired.

A business portraying itself as an ATRA member when it is not is com-mitting ad fraud. ATRA has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to viola-tions. With the assistance of our legal advisors, fraudulent users are presented with the opportunity to cease use of the ATRA logo immediately to prevent further legal action.

Proof of the removal of usage is required and is also verified with local resources. Should the violator be found using the logo in any printed material, such as local telephone book or peri-odical advertising, there are also legal

fees or charges for membership dues during the terms used due to the long-term effects of using them on marketing materials.

There are thousands of businesses around the country that have used the logo legally, and these ATRA mem-bers help make us aware of violators. Members take pride in displaying their ATRA Membership and Golden Rule Warranty participation and are upset when another business makes false claims.

The ATRA member shops of the organization are where the consumers go for their repairs. ATRA doesn’t want consumers to have a bad experi-ence with a shop portraying ATRA Membership. These bad experiences reflect poorly on ATRA and the ATRA Members.

This is the basis of our Member Watchdog Program. Member Watchdogs are the unofficial ATRA Neighborhood watch. They are mem-bers that want to ensure the ATRA logo is used with integrity. Even where there are no members in specified areas, ATRA members travel through those areas.

We encourage ATRA members to get involved as a Watchdog. If you

know of any businesses that are adver-tising ATRA Membership deceitfully, or even falsely advertising the use of the ATRA Golden Rule Warranty, verify the business affiliation with ATRA by visiting the ATRA Shop Finder online at www.atra.com/shopfinder. The Shop Finder is the most up-to-date record of all currently active ATRA members. If a business is listed in the Shop Finder directory, it is a current ATRA member.

If you don’t see the business listed, you can safely report them in confi-dence to ATRA by calling us at (805) 604-2000 or submitting the online form at members.atra.com/adfraud

The majority of the violators opt to remove the advertisement or even become ATRA members rather than face legal action. Those that have decid-ed to become members have already seen the benefit that their association with ATRA has given them.

ATRA membership proves to be more valuable every time a member validates the proper use of the ATRA name and those that use it illegally will face the consequences.

The ATRA logo is a sign of trust for consumers and shop owners alike. This trust is based on the integrity of the membership and the expectation consumers have when they visit an ATRA Member shop. With the help of its members, ATRA’s goal is to fulfill that expectation every time they see the ATRA logo.

by Kelly Hilmermembers.atra.com

www.atra.com

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

Don’t Get Caught with the ATRA Logo Unless you are an ATRA Member of course!

2011 ATRA Technical Seminars

Registration Costs:Prepaid, preregistered ATRA members $149Prepaid, preregistered non-ATRA members $189On-site registration $220

One free registration with every four paid.

800.428.8489 • http://members.atra.com

Register Today!

1/22/11 Dallas, TX2/12/11 Houston, TX2/19/11 Charlotte, NC3/5/11 St. Louis, MO3/12/11 Boston, MA3/19/11 Phoenix, AZ3/19/11 Orlando, FL3/26/11 Biloxi, MS3/26/11 San Antonio, TX4/2/11 Salt Lake City, UT4/9/11 Minneapolis, MN4/30/11 Fremont, CA5/7/11 Coeur D’Alene, ID5/14/11 Denver, CO5/21/11 Des Moines, IA6/4/11 Vancouver, BC8/20/11 Cincinnati, OH9/17/11 Billings, MT10/1/11 Chicago, IL10/8/11 Portland, OR

Check http://members.atra.com for more dates and locations to come!

A Changing IndustryTransmissions never change, right? Hardly. You know how fast models are changing and how complex they are becoming. To help you keep evolving with the industry, ATRA’s team of transmission experts is hosting one of their renowned technical seminars in your area. They’ll give you the in-depth training you and your staff need to provide your customers with the quality service they expect. Register today and look forward to your shop’s repair work being transformed!

Helping you get your customers back on the road...FAST!

LOCATIONS

GM:LCT 10004L60/65/70E4T65E4L30E6L804L65E4L80E4T40/45E

CHRYSLER:41TE545RFE45RFE42RLE42-46RE

IMPORT:RE5R05AAll HondasAW55-50SN

FORD:AWF 21B6F50AX4N5R55N/W/S

TRANSMISSION OVERVIEW


Imagine your dream car. No, not one right out of the box; that’d be too easy. Any moron with a big enough

pile of cash can buy an exceptional car.Think about the car you’d build if

you could have anything you wanted… one that’d turn heads whether it was sitting still or burning up the track. The one that almost demands that you hop out and introduce yourself as “Bond… James Bond.”

That’s the car that came into DMC Transmissions in Southern California; a 1968 Camaro convertible with a cus-tom paint job and mag wheels. And, as shop owner and ATRA Board Member Donny Caccamise explained, one look at the car made it clear that this was going to be no ordinary rebuild.

According to Donny, the customer made his position quite clear: This job wasn’t about price. He’d spent over $100,000 so far, building a car that he could take to the track at Willow Springs while still being able to drive it around town.

He’d replaced the engine with a Byron Raney 502 CI that produced over 600 HP. Now he wanted the transmis-sion to hold up to all that power. And he wasn’t content to rebuild the stock unit; oh no. He wanted a transmission that would provide additional flexibility

and torque.The transmission had already been

replaced at another shop with a 4L80E, but they couldn’t get it to withstand that much engine. Donny’s job — should he choose to accept it — was to make that unit bulletproof. And do it with a bit of style to boot. Price was no object; he wanted it all, and he was willing to pay for it.

Donny and his rebuilder, longtime GEARS contributor and automotive instuctor Glenn Troub, were only too happy to accept the challenge.

Glenn went after this transmission like a kid in a candy store. He basically opened a copy of the GEARS Buyer’s

The Ultimate Ride

See You inLas Vegas, Nevada

October 27-31, 2011Las Vegas Hilton


Guide and ordered the biggest and best of pretty much everything he could find to make this unit a performance powerhouse.

The parts list for this transmission looks like a Who’s Who of transmission suppliers. He used high performance racing clutch plates with a combination of Turbulator and Koleen steels, and a complete valve body modification kit. And he included every update and modification available to provide addi-tional strength and durability.

He ordered a 10” performance torque converter with a 4000 RPM stall speed, and an external transmis-sion cooler. Then he topped it off with premium ATF spiked with an additive to provide additional lubrication and thermal stability.

Anything he could use to give this transmission greater durability while providing exceptional performance, he added it to the list. Remember: price was no object. And by the time he got done, Glenn had spent over $7000 just for parts!

To expand its range and flexibility, Glenn bolted a Gear Vendor Under/Overdrive unit to the back of the trans-mission, and filled it with a premium synthetic gear lube. This turned a sim-ple four-speed into a true eight-speed unit.

Last but not least, to provide the driver with total control of the transmission operation, he installed a paddle shifter from Shiftmaster and a Compushift system from Mike Hoy.

Finally the transmission was together and the car ready to road test. And it didn’t disappoint: In low ranges it had the power and torque to snap your neck, while it could cruise at 65 MPH with the engine turning at just 1400 RPM.

This car would feel at home on the track or on the freeway. And it’d still be the envy of the neighborhood when parked in the customer’s driveway. No doubt about it… this could easily be the ultimate ride…

ATRA NEWS


Refill for 722.6 Lube Regulator Kit from Superior

Now by popular demand, Superior Transmission Parts is releasing sin-gular valve reloads for the Superior Part #K093 722.6 / NAG-1 Lubrication Pressure Regulator (LPR) Valve Bore Repair Package.

These singles are for use as a refill to Superior’s kit, but you need to have already purchased a K093 kit to use them. This kit isn’t a standalone: It’s only useable as a reload, after you’ve used the five valves already supplied with the K093 kit.

Use the new part number K094 for the valve reload. This reload kit is always in stock and available for imme-diate shipping, as are the original K093 LPR kits, affectionately known as “the Judder Fix.”

Visit www.superior-transmission.com to find out more info or to locate a stocking distributor near you.

SKF Differential, Transfer Case and Transmission Kits Catalog Now Available

SKF recently released its new SKF Differential, Transfer Case and Transmission Kits catalog (457604) for passenger car, light and medium truck, and heavy duty applications.

Divided into three sections, the catalog includes an extensive application index, general information section, and refer-ence materials section.

The application section contains a differential, transmission, and transfer case kit index for passenger car, and light and medium truck applications; a differential index for heavy duty appli-cations; and a transmission index for heavy duty applications.

Additionally, the information sec-tion of the catalog contains ATA/VMRS (American Trucking Association—Vehicle Maintenance Reporting Standards) numbers, seal and bear-ing location and nomenclature charts, transmission and differential tag iden-tification charts, kit contents listings, SPEEDI-SLEEVE size listings, crush sleeve kits, new part number reference list, and obsolete parts list.

The reference section of the cata-log provides differential/transmission kit interchanges, driveshaft support bearing listings, DL and unitized pinion seal listings and a quick reference kit application guide.

“SKF is pleased to offer a new catalog in connection with our com-plete offering of differential, transfer case and transmission kits for automo-tive, light duty and commercial vehi-cle applications,” said SKF Product Manager Doug Fike. “The new catalog is an excellent resource when perform-ing a complete system rebuild on any application.”

To obtain a copy of the new SKF Differential, Transfer Case and Transmission Kits catalog, contact SKF customer service at 1-800-882-0008 and order product number 457604, con-tact your local SKF representative, or visit www.vsm.skf.com.

ZF6HP26 Bushing Kit from Omega Machine and Tool, Inc.

Many technicians have been look-ing for a bushing kit for the ZF6HP26 transmission. This transmission is used in the BMW, Jaguar, Range Rover, and Ford Navigator, to name a few.

To address this need, Omega Machine and Tool has designed the 84500 Master Kit, which includes all these bushings:

(2) A-clutch hub bushings; #84509(2) A-clutch drum bushings; one

large one small, #84511S and #84511L

(2) B-clutch drum bushings; #84510(1) Front stator bushing; #84428(3) Rear stator bushings; #84429,

#84429B, #84429C(2) Pilot bushings; #84417 That’s twelve bushings in this kit

to fit the many different configurations found in this trans.

For more information, visit Omega on line at www.omegamachine.com.

Central Valve Bodies Now Available through A & Reds Auto Parts

A & Reds teams up with Central Valve Bodies to supply rebuilders with quality rebuilt valve bodies.

The valve bodies are rebuilt using Sonnax parts and updates and are tested using the VBT4000 and Sol X 2000 valve body dynos.

And every Central Valve Body comes with a 12-month warranty.

For more information contact Robert Rasmussen at 800-835-1007 ext. 124

POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWSGEARS does not endorse new products but makes this new information available to readers. If you have a new product, please email the press release information with applicable digital photo or drawing to [email protected] or send by mail to GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030.

Teams up with


POWER INDUSTRY NEWSVBX Welcomes Joe Cangelosi

VBX-Valve Body Xpress is proud to welcome Joe Cangelosi as the new-est member of its team. Joe possesses a vast knowledge of the transmission industry, including employment as a transmission technician, rebuilder, and international technical consultant. While working as a technical consul-tant, Joe also presented technical train-ing seminars and classroom instruction.

Joe brings over 45 years of diverse transmission experience to VBX and a dedication to exceptional professional-ism and customer service.

According to VBX President Tim LaCerra, “Joe is an excellent addition to our growing team and his philosophy mirrors that of VBX. He has the desire and commitment to provide this indus-try with the highest quality product, along with the best possible product support.”

Please join VBX in welcoming Joe to its team. For more about VBX, visit them on line at www.valvebodyxpress.com.

G-TEC Now Offers Oberg Filters

G-TEC is proud to announce it is now an Oberg filter distributor.

Oberg Filters have three decades of protecting all types of racing engines and transmissions under its belt. And today, Oberg Filters is still the most trusted name in racing filtration.

Whether you’re looking for a filter for oil, fuel, ATF, or any other fluid, Oberg has the right system for you. The Oberg filtration systems are per-manent filters that can be used on any shop equipment where oils need to be filtered.

These filters are perfect for cold or hot cool-er line flushers or transmission exchangers. The Oberg filter has a filter screen that never wears out. It’s a great diag-nostic tool that’s easy to maintain and allows you to see type of debris that’s being filtered out of the oil or ATF.

Not only can you use this filter on equipment but you can install it in your customers’ vehicles to filter automatic transmission fluid, engine oil, and fuel. If you ever wanted to add a filter that lets you see what you’re filtering, this is the system for you.

G-TEC also carries replacement filter screens in 4”, 6”, and 8” sizes.

For additional information please visit G-TEC on line at www.g-tec.com, or on Twitter at GTECINC.

EZ-DRIVER Named Most Wanted by PTEN Magazine

PTEN — Professional Tool and Equipment News — Magazine announced its Top 100 Tools for 2010. This is a list of tools based on the requests from readers for more infor-mation on a product through the reader card or web magazine.

The list is basically a “Most Wanted” products for the year. Arizona Transmission Machine and its signature product the EZ-DRIVER made the Top

25 for 2010.Mike Tilley, president of the com-

pany, said “It’s been an amazing year with the Innovation Award for Shop Tools and Equipment in March (May 2010 GEARS) and now this honor. It’s humbling.”

One more reason to love America: A good idea, hard work and look what can happen.

To learn more, call Arizona Transmission Machine at 1-602-992-2961.

Wichata Store Manager Roger Fredrickson Honored for 25-Years Service

A & Reds Wichita Store Manager Roger Fredrickson was presented a 25-year achievement award from com-pany founder Leon Autry.

According to Leon, “Good long term employees are the secret to our success as a company.” And with 25 years of service under his belt, you can’t get much more long term than Roger.

The entire staff of A & Reds Transmission Parts wants to thank Roger for his many years of service, and look forward to many more years together serving the industry.

Joe Cangelosi

Roger Fredrickson


To learn more, call A & Reds at 800-835-1007 Ext. 124.

Success Story Servando Orozco Joins Elite Worldwide Team

Elite Worldwide has announced that Servando Orozco, an industry suc-cess story, has joined the company as a speaker and provider of both English and Spanish automotive business man-agement content for Elite downloads.

Eleven years ago Orozco started with a small two-bay shop in Long Beach, California, struggling each month just to break even. His unwaver-ing commitment to success, devotion to training and continued education, and dedication to helping the Long Beach community through charity events held at his shop have made him the proud owner of two of the most successful shops in California.

While Orozco has had the opportu-nity to share his success story through speaking engagements at industry events, local colleges, and interviews with the local press and other automo-tive organizations, his new position with Elite will enable him to teach shop owners his secrets to success world-wide.

“Servando is a testimony to what can be done when one has clearly defined goals, a well crafted plan, a strong work ethic, and the right people on their team. His commitment to ethics and the reputation he’s built through his involvement in local charities illustrate that when you do the right things for the right reasons, good things happen. It’s an honor to have Servando join the Elite team. There’s no doubt in my mind he’ll enable us to help more shop owners, in both English and Spanish, worldwide,” said Bob Cooper, president of Elite Worldwide.

Visit Elite on line at www.EliteWorldwideStore.com.

2010 Overrunning Alternator Pulley Catalog Available

Schaeffler Group USA Inc. is pleased to announce the release of its 2010 INA Overrunning Alternator Pulley Catalog. Over 50 SKUs are

included, covering in excess of 200 European, Asian, and U.S. domestic applications. Also included are industry cross-references, a diagnostic guide, and functionality test instructions.

“OAPs have been one of our fast-est growing product lines in recent years,” said Bill Hanvey, director of business development for Schaeffler Group USA’s Automotive Aftermarket Division. “We’re excited to be able to offer this valuable reference guide to our customers.”

The Schaeffler Group pioneered the development of the overrunning alternator pulley and continues to lead the industry with new applica-tions worldwide. The unique design effectively dampens belt vibrations by decoupling the alternator from crank-shaft rotational irregularities to reduce noise, increase belt life, and improve alternator efficiency.

Print and CD versions of the 2010 Overrunning Alternator Pulley Catalog are available by sending a request to [email protected], and an electronic version is available at www.schaeffler-aftermarket.com.

Schaeffler Group USA Inc. is a leading partner to the automotive replacement parts markets in North America. The group, which includes the LuK, INA and FAG brands, offers a broad range of technologies for engine, transmission and chassis applications.

Shop Lift™: An Alternative to the Forklift

A&H Engineering and Manufacturing, Inc. offers the Shop Lift™: a uniquely engineered, ergo-nomic solution to the problem of heavy materials handling in a confined

space. Shop Lift™ is an economical yet very rugged device, built to fit through most standard doorways, carrying up to a 600 lb. payload and delivering it safely to a machine, storage rack, pallet, loading bay or onto a truck.

With a gross weight of 700 lbs. and small footprint measuring only 28” wide x 72” high x 61” long, this com-pact yet powerful device protects work-ers and loads alike. Plus, there’s none of the propane odor or noise usually associated with conventional forklifts.

Driven by a 12V electric-powered hydraulic pump with built-in battery and charger, Shop Lift™ features stan-dard 18” long sturdy steel forks with 9” load center, adjustable from 8”-18” wide and with tilting to 15º, capable of elevating a load up to 51” off the floor, with a reach-in capacity of 28” forward extension.

Every type of load, including pal-lets, round bar stock, molds, tooling, crates, heavy workpieces, even sensi-tive electronic or medical equipment, can be transported safely and easily by one operator using the onboard pendant control.

Shop Lift™ portable lifting device

One of the many uses for Shop Lift™ is tool or mold loading in machine shops,

especially when space is limited.


POWER INDUSTRY NEWSThe standard Shop Lift™ has a

suggested retail price of $3350 and can be shipped in 30 days. Custom models can be built on request. For complete literature, full specifications, or more information visit A&H Tooling on line at www.ahtooling.com.

Sonnax 4L80-E Accumulator Control Valve Kit

4L80-E accumulator control valve wear most often causes reduced line rise in reverse or soft shifts. Sonnax accu-mulator control valve kit 34994-22K not only corrects these problems and restores accumulator pressure control in ’97-later units, the kit also upgrades ’91-’96 units to the ’97-later calibra-tion. Refurbish the bore with Sonnax tool kit F-34994-TL22 and install the oversized valve, spring and end plug for an effective and durable repair on any model year 4L80-E.

Get the New Year Started Right with Electrical Training!

For many, the new year is a time for a fresh start… to improve yourself for the year ahead. Whether it’s to break an old habit, get more exercise, or improve your mind, there’s no better time to begin your new regimen than now.

To help you on your quest for a brighter future, ATRA’s Senior Editor Steve Bodofsky is offering his electri-cal training books for a special price: just $49.95 plus shipping for both the Building Blocks of Electrical Diagnosis and Advanced Electrical Diagnostic Procedures. That’s a savings of $10 off the cover price.

And because you’re getting both books at the same time, you’ll save an additional $5 off the shipping price, for a total savings of $15!

Building Blocks provides a com-plete introduction to electrical diag-nosis, from electrical theory through circuit operation and diagnosis. And unlike so many other books or pro-grams of this type, Building Blocks shows you how the principles you’ve learned affect actual diagnostic strate-gies that you’ll use in the shop.

The second book, Advanced Electrical Diagnostic Procedures, pro-vides in-depth routines for diagnosing the electrical systems you face every day in the shop. And it explains how those routines are related to the princi-ples you learned in Building Blocks, to help you develop the thought processes for adapting those routines to real world situations.

To learn more, visit www.AutoTechNow.com, or call Steve at 1-800-259-1745.

Adapt-A-Case Introduces The Seal Buddy and Rear Wheel Drive Torque Converter/Front seal kit

Our new #T-0069SR is intended as a sub-kit to the original Seal Buddy. We include (5) driver heads milled from aluminum and (1) short driver handle from steel. This handle is designed for use with a 1/2” socket extension for on-bench installations or for in-car axle seal installations. By having this in your tool box to complement the origi-nal Seal Buddy, you’ll have the ability to service the front seals of the vast majority of US domestic, rear wheel drive automatics!

Install seals with confidence know-ing you won’t need to worry about a preventable comeback. The right tool for the job!

For more information, go to: www.Adapt-A-Case.com

T-0069SR includes (5) driver heads and padded carrying case. As a bonus we

include one short driver handle for use with a 1/2” extension to install axle seals

with drivers from the original Seal Buddy.

#SB KIT-DF/RWD fits over 30 U.S. domestic rear wheel drive converter seals.

- -

www.Adapt-A-Case.com

The Right Tool for the Job.

▲ T-0069SR includes (5) driver heads and padded carrying case.As a bonus we include one short driver handle for use with a 1/2”extension to install axle seals with drivers from the original SealBuddy.

700R4/4L60E200C/2004R

4L80E

E4OD/4R1005R110W/AODAODE/4R70W

C4/C5/C6/FMX

C3/A4LD/4R55E5R55E/5R55N5R55S/5R55W

A727/A518A618/46RE47RE/48RE

TH180/350/400

Our new #T-0069SR is intended as a sub-kit to the original Seal Buddy.We include (5) driver heads milled from aluminum and (1) short driverhandle from steel. This handle is designed for use with a 1/2” socketextension for on-bench installations or for in-car axle seal installations.By having this in your tool box to complement the original Seal Buddy,you’ll have the ability to service the front seals of the vast majority ofUS domestic, rear wheel drive automatics!

Install seals with confidence knowing you won’t need to worry abouta preventable comeback. The right tool for the job!

Rear Wheel DriveTorque Converter/Front seal

#T-0069SR

#SB KIT-DF/RWD fits over 30 U.S. domestic rear wheel drive converter seals.


ERIKSSON INDUSTRIES

•1 YEAR UNLIMITED MILE WTY•

1-800-388-4418Division of Wentworth Engineering

Authorized Parts Distributor

•Remanufactured Units * DYNO TESTED*•5HP30, 5HP24, 5HP19, 5HP18, 4HP24, 4HP22, 4HP18, 4HP14•Specializing in SAAB 900/9000 5SP, as well as T-37 A/T

• Hard Parts: NEW / USED / REMANUFACTURED

Soft Parts / Friction Kits / Steel Kits / Repair Manuals

• Lifetime Fluids / Rebuild Kits / Valvebody Kits

1-800-388-4418Fax: (860) 395-0047

www.erikssonindustries.com146B Elm St., Old Saybrook, CT 06475

**COMPUTERS**Transmission Control Module

E C M & T C MMitsubishi-Honda-Hyundai-GEOKia-Mazda-Nissan-Suzuki-Toyota

BOSCH ECMGM - Ford - Chrysler - Dodge

Next Day Air Shipping AvailableOne Year Warranty

Best Customer Service!Ford *GM * Chrysler off vehicle ECM reprogramming available

8 8 8 - 2 1 7 - 4 0 7 2Autocomp Technologies, Inc.8515 N. Freeway, Houston, Texas www.g-tec.comwww.g-tec.com

Heated Cooler Line Flusher

Transmission Dyno/CV Tester

800-725-6499417-725-6400

Hard Parts * 1946-2010 * Soft Parts

800-835-1007Quality Parts *

Fair Prices

~Se Habla Espanol

Excellent Service

Visit our web site www. areds.com

Automatic * StandardTransfer Case Parts

SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADS

1 - 8 0 0 - 8 3 5 - 1 0 0 7


SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADSGEARS Shopper advertising costs $325.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed elsewhere in the magazine and are charged at comparable rates. Check or money order must accompany all orders. For information on Shopper advertising in GEARS, contact GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, or call (805) 604-2000.

BMW Mercedes-Benz Audi

Remanufactured toPerfection

Hundreds of Transmissions in-stock.

Immediate installation available.

2 year unlimited warranty.

Dyno-tested.

Remanufactured torque converter included.

Toll free 800 - 372 - TRANS

1331 Rollins Road • Burlingame, CA 94010tel 650 - 348 - 3990 fax 650 - 348 - 3019

Valve Body KitsRatioTek™

RT-4L60EFix Code 1870 Fast Adjust 1-2

shift firmness without re-moving VB.

RT-E4OD/4RKit fits

E40D and 4R100

Easy to Install - Low Cost - Great Results

3 High Tech Regulator Valves.

Adjust shift firmness.

www.ratiotek.com 626-968-2754

-- Kits At Part Suppliers Now --

RT-4L60E-HD RT-700R4 RT-700R4-HD RT-AX4S RT-4F50N RT-A750E RT-A750E-HD RT-A761E RT-A761E-HD RT-4ATAXLE RT-4ATAXLE-HD Also 5th Edition Ratiotek software now shipping!!

www.partsbyweller.com

DRIVELINE

ONE SOLUTION ONE SOURCE

•COMPLETE UNITS OR TRANSFER CASE PARTS•NEW AND REBUILT TRANSMISSIONS•OVER 1,000 AXLES IN STOCK•REBUILD KITS IN STOCK•UPS DAILY•DAILY DELIVERIES TO YOUR DOOR•S•STANDARD, EXTENDED & LIFETIME WARRANTY OPTIONS

(800) 822-2375

This cd contains over 1200 pages of Gears technical articles, there are 4 years, 260 articles

and 45 issues all on this on cd!

Please mention this ad when placing your order. Place your order before 12pm PST and receive same day shipping.

Award Winning Gears Magazine Acticles For Sale

Call Now!!!

(800)-428-8489

• Updated with ® Industry Components

• Shift Kit® Valve Bodies• Unparalleled Product Support• 12 Month Unlimited Warranty• CD-ROM catalog• Hundreds of Valve Bodies Ready to Ship

877-611-PROS (7767)E-mail: [email protected]

www.valvebodypro.com


INSTA-CLEANPARTS WASHERS





ww

w.instaclean.com

800-331-6405 800-331-6405

We Ship Anywhere

Our quality used hard parts are priced to help you retain more profit

All parts are cleaned and inspected

WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEEDFOREIGN & DOMESTIC

Standard TransmissionsTransfer Cases

New & Used PartsRebuilt Units

*ONE CALL DOES IT ALL*

CALLBRIAN OR ALBERT

866-571-GEAR 4 3 2 7

Northland Transmission Inc.

Phone: 715-458-2617 Fax: 715-458-2611

www.servobore.com

Fix it in less than fifteen minutes with one of our easy to use kits.

No machineshop required.

HARD PARTS FOR

Domestic and Foreign AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS

TORQUE CONVERTERS TRANSFER CASES

WE HAVE OVER 500,000 PARTS IN STOCK

CALL 602-971-0477 getithardparts.com

WE SHIP UPS DAILY

NEED QUALITYCONVERTERS?

Overhaul System!

Call for a free catalog877-298-5003

www.atiracing.com6747 Whitestone Road • Baltimore, MD 21207

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GEARSGEARSThis could

be your ad!

call (805) 604-2000 and find out how!

For The Transmission rebuilding indusTry


SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADSGEARS Shopper advertising costs $325.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed elsewhere in the magazine and are charged at comparable rates. Check or money order must accompany all orders. For information on Shopper advertising in GEARS, contact GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, or call (805) 604-2000.

Quality Remanufactured Torque Converters

Expect the Best!

800.727.4461

Distributorships Available

Visit our website:www.cvcconverters.com

ONE PIECE SOLID STEEL WELDWe take your cores and machine you a stronger drum.

Never worry about the snap ring failing again.

PrO TraNS ParTSright Parts, right Price, right Time

Contact us for details: 630.521.1700 phone 630.521.8890 fax

[email protected]

CD4E Double Drum & ZF5HP24 "a" Drum


USED, NEW AND REBUILTFOREIGN AND DOMESTICRETAIL AND WHOLESALEONE CALL DOES IT ALL!

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WE STOCKVT25E,6L80E,6R60E,5R110W USED & REBUILT PARTS We offer a complete machine shop for ALL of your rebuilding needs!

800-461-5396

Rostra Performance Class linear solenoids

outperform and cost less than their OE counterparts!

Transmission.com

To find out more visit:

* Complete Remanufactured**Individually Tested**SONNAX Updates*

* 1 YR Warranty**Tech Support*

*Family Owned & Operated**N*Nationwide Shipping*

NOW OFFERING*SONNAX Updated Pumps*

(877) 337 - 4681www.reamman.com


BUSINESS FOR SALE: Very successful automatic transmis-sion shop located in the interior of British Columbia, Canada. Great fishing, hunting and skiing. Estab-lished in 1970, grosses $450,000 to $600,000 annually. Great repu-tation and established clients. Owner wishes to retire. Turn key operation. Phone (250) 374-6284, e-mail: [email protected]. ATRA Mbr

BUSINESS FOR SALE: Located in Springfield, Illinois – Transmis-sion, exhaust and general repair

shop, 30 years in business, four year old facility-A/C, six lifts. All the latest equipment, including: Dyno, Tran X, large inventory parts and cores. Located on busy road, ex-cellent reputation with high repeat customer base. $1.1million, Chuck Schlosser (217) 891-7542. ATRA Mbr

BUSINESS FOR SALE: Unique transmission shop located in the heart of Montana for sale. This pristine shop is 40 by 60 foot, fea-tures 2 Rotory hoists and much more equipment. Also included, a 2 story, 2 bath house with a full unfinished basement. The back-yard has a natural spring with a pond stock with fresh trout and 5 acres of prime Montana land. This property is 7 miles outside of Lew-

SHOPPER CLASSIFIEDGEARS classified advertising cost $95.00 for up to 50 words for a one time insertion. ATRA members are eligible to receive up to three (3) FREE classified advertisements in GEARS annually (per 9 issues). Members wishing to place ads once their three FREE ads have been placed may do so at the cost listed above. Ads exceeding the maximum word count will cost $1.50 for each additional word (not including phone number and address).

January/February 2011

#1 Aisin SL Solenoid Tool SetComplete with custom carrying case.

SAVE TIME and Money

Quickly disassemble & assemble solenoids For the following 5 and 6 speed units:

AW55‐50 TF60 (09G, 09M, 09K)

TR60 (09D) TF80 (AF40‐6)

Exclusively Available from S.A.P. Call 1‐800‐582‐2760 * Fax 954‐364‐2401 Email SAPCustomerservice@TTK‐Bryco.com #35199

For all CVT rebuilders, maintainers and automatic transmission specialists

Distributor of the Bosch Transmission Technology PUSHBELT as used in CVT’s in millions of motor

vehicles worldwide, as well as Luk 01J CVT chain for Audi. Order online now or contact us on for a quote.

Discounts for larger orders available. Phone: +31 13 504 4940

[email protected]

www.pushbelt.com

For our Canadian Subscribers

Some of the 800- toll free numbers listed in the shopper ad section do not work In Canada. Therefore, as a service to you we have listed direct line phone numbers to our shopper

advertisers:

www.atra.com

A&REDS Transmission Parts has multiple locations

Eriksson Industries (860) 388-4418

Transmission Exchange Co. (503) 284-0768

Autocomp Technologies (713) 697-5511

Precision of New Hampton Inc (641) 394-5955

Lory Transmission Parts (305) 642-4621

Miami Transmission Kits (305) 885-7355

ART Auto Sport Unlimited Remanufactured Transmissions (616) 748-5725

Weller Auto Trucks Has many different shop locations

Instaclean (928) 680-4445

Silver Star Transmission (405) 330-9300

Trans-Pac Motor Parts (310) 637-9156

Transfer Case Express has multiple locations


istown, Montana. Call (406) 538-9085 Serious inquires only please.

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: Trans Dynomometer – Intercontinental Dyno model CAWDOE – 50 HP electric motor. In new condition, turn-key system includes all tool-ing, fixtures, computer and soft-ware. Dynos most RWD & FWD automatics. $35,000.00 Ask for Dave: (250) 475-2851 Victoria BC, Canada. Can email pictures upon request. ATRA Mbr

HELP WANTED: AAMCO Sales Manager – $60 to $80K, South-ern California/Riverside County. Nice shop, good crew and warm climate. This center has extended its services to include complete car care (Tune-ups, brakes and other general auto services). Only expe-

rienced high achievers with excep-tional sales skills and good verifi-able work history need apply. Art Eastman (714) 325-7777 [email protected].

HELP WANTED: Transmission Parts Sales Rep. - GFX, a Miami based manufacturer and distribu-tor of automatic transmission parts seeks an experienced sales rep-resentative for our export market. Knowledge of parts, industry and distribution channels required. Compensation is based on expe-rience. Interested parties should send their resumes to [email protected] for consideration. Ap-plications will be held in strict con-fidence.

HELP WANTED: Heritage Trans-missions in Virginia Beach, Virginia is looking for an experienced Build-er or R&R with general auto repair experience. Call Mike at (757) 428-9088. Will help relocate. ATRA Mbr

HELP WANTED: Denver Colora-do’s fastest growing family owned transmission company is look-ing for skilled Business Mangers, Builders and R&R Technicians. If you are driven to succeed and want to be a part of something special send your resume to: 3485 S. Zuni St., Sheridan, CO 90110. You may also call (720) 629-0695. Relocation assistance available to qualified individuals. ATRA Mbr

Name___________________________________________

Address_________________________________________

City_____________________________________________________

State_____________________________ Zip___________________

Phone___________________________________________________

Signature________________________________________________

X

Please enclose check or money order in U.S. funds and send to:

GEARS • 2400 LATIGO AVENUE • OXNARD, CALIFORNIA 93030or call: (805)604-2000

U.S. $30 ~ Canada $45 ~ Other Areas $65

I want my very own subscription to the next 9 issues of GEARS.

Subscribe Today!Grab Your GEARS Now!


ADVERTISERSName Page Name Page

A & Reds Transmission Parts...............................................57 www.areds.comActive Transmission & Gear .................................................37 www.FifthGearRepair.comAdapt A Case........................................................................59 www.adapt-a-case.comATRA ...................................................53, 122, 123, 125, 127 www.atra.comBAAN Powertrain Corp.........................................................61 www.baanpowertrain.comBorg-Warner Automotive ............................................... 15, 63 www.borgwarner.comCertified Transmission ............................................................7 www.certifiedtransmissions.comConsolidated Transmission Parts, Inc. .................................65 www.consolidatedtrans.comDacco Transmission Parts....................................................67 www.daccoinc.comETE Reman ..........................................................................21 www.enginetrans.comEVT Parts .......................................................................11, 73 www.evtparts.comExedy Globalparts Corporation ..................................... 70, 71 www.exedyusa.comG-Cor Automotive Corp ................................................. 13, 75 www.transmissionhardparts.comG-TEC, Inc. ..........................................................................77 www.g-tec.comInsta-Clean Inc. ....................................................................34 www.instaclean.comJasper Engines & Transmissions ................................ IBC, 79 www.jasperengines.comJDS Worldwide Corp. ...........................................................81 www.jesworldwide.comJP Transmission Salvage Inc. ..............................................83 www.jptransmission.com/K B Cores, Inc. .....................................................................85 www.kbcores.comLife Automotive Products Inc. ...............................................43 www.smartblend.comLubegard® By International Lubricants, Inc. ............. OBC, 87 www.lubegard.comPd & Mfg Inc .........................................................................89 www.pdmtsk.comPower Pusher By Nu-Star, Inc. ............................................91 www.powerpusher.com

Precision European Inc .....................................Rider, 93, 139 www.PEIus.comPrecision International ................................................... 31, 95 www.transmissionkits.comRandy’s Ring & Pinion .........................................................99 www.ringpinion.comRaybestos Powertrain ............................................................3 www.raybestospowertrain.comRockland Standard Gear, Inc. ..............................................36 www.rsgear.comRostra Precision Controls Inc. ............................................101 www.rostra.comSales Logik .........................................................................103 www.saleslogik.com/gearsSeal Aftermarket Products....................................................41 www.sealaftermarketproducts.com/Slauson Transmission Parts .................................................45 www.slauson.comSonnax Industries ...............................................................IFC www.sonnax.comSuperFlow Technologies Group ...........................................36 www.superflow.comSuperior Transmission Parts ................................................47 www.superior-transmission.comTCI Automotive .....................................................................37 www.tciauto.comTeckpak-Fitzall ..................................................................... 23 www.teckpak-fitzall.comTransmission Remanufacturing Company LLC ..................105 www.trctrans.comTransmission Specialties ............................................. 35, 107 www.transmission-specialties.comTranstar Industries, Inc. ............................................... 25, 109 www.transtar1.comTransTec By CORTECO .................................................. 29, 9 www.transtec.comValve Body Pro ................................................................... 111 www.valvebodypro.comVBX - ValveBody Xpress, Inc. ......................................49, 113 www.valvebodyxpress.comWhatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc. ...................5, 115 www.wittrans.comWorldwide Transmission Group .........................................117 http://worldwidetransmissions.com/

2011

CALENDARATRA Supplier Members

Reserve your free table top display for the ATRA 2011 technical seminar series today! Call (805) 604-2018See ATRA Seminar Schedule page 125.

jasper ibc.indd IBC2jasper ibc.indd IBC2 1/8/09 9:03:00 AM1/8/09 9:03:00 AM

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Synapse Prepare Typical Printer Inc:CMYK Composite QuarkXPressª Settings: Incl_NoOv_Mrks_CompUser may modify QuarkXPressª settings prior to sendingInDesignª Print Style: Incl_NoOv_Mrks_CompDistiller Job Options: Creo PDF Pages.joboptionsPitStop Profile: W_Images_CMYK.pppPitStop Actions: Convert Color to CMYK.eal SynapseLogo.ealUser can add info annotations into resulting PDFDistiller annotations will be added into resulting PDFJob Info annotations will be added into resulting PDFDirective annotations will be added into resulting PDF�

Job Name: Synapse Prepare JobJob Number: V14Proof Due: Thu, Jul 4, 2002Final Due: Thu, Aug 29, 2002Company: Synapse Prepare Inc.Contact: ToddAddress: 18 PDF LaneCity: AlbertvilleState: BC Zip: Country: Office Phone: 555-555-1212Email: [email protected]: Please call if you have questions about this job�

jan/feb 2011

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